Wrestling News: Ritu Phogat moves from wrestling to Mixed Martial Arts

Ritu Phogat, daughter of Dangal fame wrestling coach Mahavir Phogat, in a shock move announced her decision to join Mixed Martial Arts, leaving a promising career in wrestling. The 24-year-old is third of the famous Phogat sisters - Geeta, Babita, Ritu and Sangita. In 2017, she had won a silver medal in the 48kg category at the World U-23 Senior Wrestling Championship in Poland. She has joined Singapore-based Evolve Fight Team. GFX IN Let’s see what Ritu said to Power Sportz. I am really excited to begin my new journey. The reason I picked MMA is because I want to be the first Indian to become MMA world champion.I have been following MMA for a while and was very impressed by the sport. I have always wondered why there are no Indians in this sport. Her decision has shocked the Wrestling Federation of India, which says Ritu kept them in the dark by claiming she was injured. The move to MMA will cost Ritu her chance to win glory for India at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Commenting on Ritu's decision, WFI assistant secretary Vinod Tomar said that It is quite shocking, but if she has decided to join MMA then it will be curtains for her amateur career. Earlier this month, Ritu had pulled out of the senior women's national wrestling camp, which is underway in Lucknow, citing injury. Back home in Haryana's Balali village, her family is very excited and happy with ritu’s decision.