Arunachal Pradesh’s Sonam Zomba continued her impressive run in Indian MMA by successfully defending her Matrix Fight Night (MFN) Women’s Strawweight World Title at MFN 18 on May 2, 2026. The event took place at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Indoor Stadium in Greater Noida, where Zomba headlined the card against Brazil’s Maristela Alves.
A Commanding Title Defense
Zomba entered the main event as the reigning champion, having claimed the belt at MFN 17 with a hard-fought unanimous decision victory. Against Alves, she faced early pressure but quickly took control of the fight with superior grappling and cage awareness.
In the second round, at 4:39, Zomba executed a precise reverse armbar, forcing Alves to submit. The finish showcased her technical sharpness and ability to capitalize on opportunities under the bright lights of a title fight. With this win, the 27-year-old improved her professional record to 8-1, extending her winning streak to eight consecutive victories.
Sonam Zomba : The Rise of an Arunachal Champion
Standing at 5’2″ and competing in the strawweight division, Sonam Zomba has emerged as one of India’s most promising female MMA fighters. Hailing from Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, she made history by becoming the first fighter from her state to capture the MFN Strawweight Championship. Her journey includes overcoming a serious elbow injury and a lengthy layoff, demonstrating remarkable resilience and dedication.
Training out of Bidang MMA & Fitness Gym, Zomba has built a reputation for well-rounded skills, blending strong grappling with composure inside the cage. Her latest victory against an international opponent further highlights her growing stature in the sport.
A Moment of Pride for Indian MMA
This title defense marks another significant milestone for Indian MMA. Zomba’s performances continue to inspire aspiring athletes, particularly from the Northeast, proving that talent and hard work can shine on bigger stages.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu praised her inspiring performance and contribution to the state’s sporting pride.
As Indian MMA gains momentum, fighters like Sonam Zomba are playing a key role in elevating the sport’s profile both nationally and internationally. Her consistent dominance in the strawweight division positions her as a standout champion to watch in the coming years.
