Rajina Bista fights her way to history in Muay Thai, aims for global stage

Rajina Bista, a 27-year-old athlete, has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Nepali woman to defeat a Thai opponent in a professional Muay Thai fight. Competing at the Amazing Muay Thai World Festival in Bangkok, Bista secured victories against Thai fighters Phet Nanin and Theptida Sor Pichai, advancing to the finals. Although she ultimately won a silver medal after a close five-round fight against Layal Shafee of the USA, her earlier wins marked a significant moment for Nepali martial arts.

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Well, I believe I should have won that final match.

Bista expressed that she believed she should have won the final match. She is now returning to Nepal to seek sponsors who can support her ambition to compete in major international Muay Thai events such as ONE Championship and the Rajadamnern World Series (RWS). Her journey is also deeply personal, as she aims to fulfill the martial arts dreams of her father, Radheshyam Bista, and her husband, Paras Rawal.

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I am returning home next week to search for sponsors who can back me up as I move forward, towards ONE Championship and RWS.

Her father, a martial arts enthusiast who never had the opportunity to compete professionally, has proudly shared her progress on social media. Bista began her martial arts training at age eight in karate, inspired by a desire to win medals after an early loss. Despite her elder sister discontinuing the sport, Bista remained dedicated, crediting the unwavering support from her family and in-laws for her continued participation.

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My father loves martial arts and wanted to be a fighter himself, but he never got the chance to continue it on the big stages. I am carrying our father’s dream forward.

Her husband, Paras Rawal, a former national cricketer who also couldn't pursue his sport at the highest level, shares a similar ambition with Bista. She feels fortunate for their steadfast backing, noting that her mother-in-law often defends her fighting career against societal expectations that suggest it is unsuitable for women. Bista's success is a testament to her skill, determination, and the strong support system that empowers her to pursue her dreams on the global stage.

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I remember sparring within three months of joining the dojo. I lost the fight and was sad to see others in joy with medals. It was then that I told myself: I am going to win that medal that looks like gold.