Gina “The Conviction” Iniong is a woman on a mission.
The Filipina has been tightening up her skill set ever since dropping a unanimous decision to Istela Nunes in July, but now she is ready to showcase her vast improvement and make a move back to the upper echelon of ONE Championship’s women’s atomweight division.
She will get a chance to do that when she takes on Malaysian rising star Jihin “Shadow Cat” Radzuan at ONE: CLASH OF LEGENDS at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand on 16 February.
“My loss to Nunes was a wake-up call for me. I knew I had to make a change, that I need to step up my game more,” Iniong said.
“Since then, I dedicated my time and effort to improve my overall game. It was a decision I had to make, and one that I continue to do in training while preparing for my next bout.”
The 29-year-old Team Lakay standout will have her hands full against the unbeaten Malaysian prodigy, which shares the same background as her as far as striking is concerned.
Radzuan is also a Wushu World Champion herself, making this an interesting bout between two women who are more than capable of getting that quick victory on the feet.
“We know how good Radzuan is that’s why we have a great game plan ready for this match. I am very fortunate to have an amazing team supporting my development and building my confidence,” said Iniong.
“Coach Mark has put together a sound strategy that will put me in the best position to win. It is going to be an exciting match, and I cannot wait to test my skills once again.”
Though she experienced some setbacks in the past, Iniong believes that she still belongs at the top of the division.
A win here would certainly prove her point.
“This is a crucial match for me. I need to prove that I still belong in the title conversation. I need a statement-making victory,” Iniong said.
“Now my dedication and hunger for this sport are in an all-time high, I know I can turn my previous setback into triumph. I am ready for anything.”
