Arunachal Pradesh’s mixed martial arts (MMA) star Sonam Zomba scripted history by becoming the first-ever Karma Fight League (KFL) World Strawweight Champion after defeating Sri Lanka’s Chathuri Siriwardana by unanimous decision in a K-1 kickboxing bout.
The championship fight was held at the Sri Lanka Exhibition and Convention Centre (SLECC) in Colombo, where Zomba delivered a composed and dominant performance to claim the inaugural world title.
Although initial announcements had listed Pakistan’s Bushra Akhtar as Zomba’s opponent, the bout eventually took place against Sri Lankan fighter Chathuri Siriwardana, with the Arunachal athlete emerging victorious.
The latest triumph adds to Zomba’s growing list of achievements. Earlier this year, she successfully defended her Matrix Fight Night (MFN) Strawweight World Championship, further cementing her reputation as one of India’s leading combat sports athletes.
Hailing from Tawang district, Zomba trains under Bidang MMA and boasts an impressive professional MMA record of around 8-1. Her latest K-1 kickboxing title underlines her versatility across multiple combat disciplines.
Congratulating the champion, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu hailed her achievement and described Zomba as “Bharat ki beti” (India’s daughter).
“She went in, fought hard, and came out with the title belt, defeating Sri Lanka’s Chathuri Siriwardana. That’s what winners do,” Khandu said, wishing her continued success in the future.
