MMA should be considered for sports awards like Arjuna: Ritu Phogat

New Delhi: Talking about promoting MMA in India, Wrestler-turned-Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter Ritu Phogat, daughter of famous wrestling coach Mahavir Singh Phogat, on Tuesday suggested that the players of this game should also be "considered for sports awards like Arjuna".

"We also play for our nation… we also represent India," said Ritu.

"And I am not demanding anything here for myself, but it is for the youngsters who are opting for a career in this sport. Bollywood celebrities are following this sport. Some movies are also made" she explained.

Ritu has stormed into the semi-finals of Atomic Weight Grand Prix of One Championship in Singapore. She defeated China's World No. 2 Meng Bo, who was on a seven-match undefeated streak. The 27-year-old MMA fighter expressed her delight over the "big win".

"Government should promote and support it as it is now gaining popularity among the masses. Sports awards like Arjuna would definitely help us in a big way. There should be a proper recognised body (federation) of MMA in India like other sports have. We have a lot of talent in India, who are willing to join the sport. There should be a proper telecast of our bouts also so that people can watch it" she said.

"Meng Bo is a really good fighter. She is the number 2 contender. She has more experience than me. But I have proved I am among the best. I used some wrestling moves in this fight and the combination of wrestling moves and MMA style is helping me in fights really well," Phogat said.

"I learned a lot and got a lot more experience in my last fight. I checked her (Meng Bo) videos and trained accordingly. I am ready for whoever I have to face in the next round. I am ready for the next challenge" She said.

Asked if she will return to wrestling, Ritu said, "right now, my only focus is MMA."

"I am not thinking about coming back to wrestling. I know my father wants us to win an Olympic medal. Sangeeta will be participating in World Wrestling Championships. She has made a good comeback. Also, my cousin Vinesh Phogat… she is also working hard. She was unlucky this time in Tokyo (Olympics) but hopefully will win a medal in 2024 Paris," Ritu added.