Gabriel Segura ||

Filipino atomweight Jomary “The Zamboanginian Fighter” Torres hopes to recover after a series of tumbles in her latest match against Indian newcomer Ritu “The Indian Tigress” Phogat, who, since her debut in 2019, has been undefeated with 3 wins. The fight, part of an event with other headliners titled “ONE: Big Bang”, will be held on December 4, 2020 at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, Kallang, Singapore. 

Torres’s career has definitely been a rollercoaster, starting out with 4 straight wins then eclipsed by a 4 match losing streak, leading to the sports public largely viewing her as the underdog. In comparison, Phogat’s career, while significantly shorter, has been nothing short of impressive; her last win by way of a double-leg takedown showcased a grappling technique honed by the Indian national wrestling tournaments.

However, both sides are heavily training in anticipation. Torres has been taking wrestling pointers from fellow countryman Rene Catalan, with whom she shares a background in wushu and sambo, both striking arts which contrast heavily with Phogat’s grappling style, a fact pointed out by Phogat, saying

“She has a strong stand-up game, but I think my wrestling game is better.”

In an interview, Torres says she expects to surprise many fans and aficionados of the sport, and is determined to win for her family.