She was defeated by former two-sport ONE World Champion Stamp Fairtex in the second round through submission, although she claims she gained a lot from the experience.
The setback, according to Phogat, hasn't prevented her from pursuing her aspirations. "I'm here with one objective in mind: to become India's first female MMA world champion. I'll do all in my power to make it happen "Phogat said.
"The year 2021 was a rollercoaster of emotions, experiences, learnings, and disappointments. I always see things in a good light when I look at them. The world is experiencing a once in a century epidemic, yet we have learnt so much as humans. As a martial artist, 2021 was one of my greatest years ever, and that will only assist me to improve. All of my victories and defeats have taught me something."
In April, Bi Nguyen, a Vietnamese-American, was defeated. Fightbook MAA/Wikipedia
In 2021, Phogat fought five times, winning three and losing two. In April, Bi Nguyen, a Vietnamese-American, was defeated. Following her loss against Nguyen, Phogat embarked on a three-bout winning streak, showing remarkable progress with each fight.
She finally made it to the ONE Women's Atomweight World Grand Prix Championship Final, where she faced Stamp Fairtex, but lost."I put forth a lot of effort to prepare for the finals. Losses, on the other hand, might occasionally provide you with a new, yet beneficial viewpoint.
To win, I'll have to put in more effort. It's perfectly acceptable to lose. It strengthens your mind and increases your appetite. I've lost previously, but I need to concentrate on getting back on track after a setback "Phogat said.
"I've learnt that hard effort and consistency are essential, but that a good mentality and focus are even more important. Every athlete trains hard and competes, but in the ring, mental toughness and a good attitude make all the difference."
Now that the year 2022 has arrived, Phogat says she is more motivated than ever to fulfil her goals in the next year. She claims that no matter who she confronts next in the Circle, her opponent must be prepared for what she has to offer.
Phogat is motivated to begin the year on a positive note by winning big.
"You must always strive to develop and progress. Overconfidence may occur when you believe you are the greatest. Not only in wrestling, but also in Muay Thai, Jiu-Jitsu, and Boxing, I need to develop every day. I need to improve on a daily basis if I want to be one of the top martial artists "Phogat came to a conclusion.
"The next step for me is to return to my winning ways and demonstrate my abilities. I shall be fully prepared to face anyone, regardless of who my opponent is."
(IANS/PR)
(Keywords: ONE Women's Atomweight World Grand Prix Championship Final, Bi Nguyen, a Vietnamese-American, Ritu Phogat, first women's MMA world champion, India)