UFC Fighter Credits Aamir Khan Film After Victory

A UFC victory speech just turned into one of the most heartwarming tributes to the power of storytelling across borders.

Chinese fighter Shi Ming dominated India's Pooja Tomar at Road to UFC Season 5 in Mumbai on May 29. But what she said after the match left everyone smiling.

"I like Bollywood star Aamir Khan," Shi Ming told the crowd. "The movie Dangal is so touching. I hope someone can make a movie about me like that someday. Dangal 2, let's go!"

The 2016 film tells the true story of wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat, who trained his daughters Geeta and Babita to become champions. It's about breaking barriers, defying expectations, and proving that girls can achieve anything.

Shi Ming isn't alone in her love for the film. When Dangal released in China in 2017, it earned over $193 million and became the country's biggest non-Hollywood success at the time.

Young Chinese women especially connected with Geeta Phogat's journey. They saw their own struggles reflected in her fight against societal prejudice and her determination to stand atop the podium.

Why This Inspires

This moment shows how authentic stories about perseverance speak a universal language. A film about an Indian wrestler inspired a Chinese fighter who just beat an Indian opponent, and everyone celebrated together.

The Phogat family's legacy continues to inspire real athletes pursuing real dreams. Geeta's cousin Vinesh Phogat just qualified for the Asian Games trials after overcoming legal and administrative hurdles.

Shi Ming's shoutout proves that when we share stories about overcoming obstacles and believing in ourselves, those messages travel farther than any border can contain.

One victory speech, two countries, and millions inspired by the same simple truth: your story matters, no matter where you're from.