Rematch set
Japanese atomweight Mei Yamaguchi has accepted the challenge to take on Gina Iniong on Friday, November 24, in the co-main event for ONE Championship: Immortal Pursuit at the Singapore Indoor Stadium in Kallang, Singapore.
“I commend Gina Iniong for taking this match on a short notice. She is a good martial arts artist with promising potential in the division,” Yamaguchi, who is 16-10-1 in her career, told The Body Lock – Asia. “Gina is in good hands, training with no less than the best at Team Lakay.”
Last Thursday, Yamaguchi’s supposed opponent, ONE Women’s Atomweight World Champion Angela Lee, figured in a car accident that sidelined her for the event.
On the other hand, Iniong (6-2) was visibly unscathed in her bout against Hertati Lumban Gaol last Friday during Legends of the World.
With this, ONE Chief Executive Officer Chatri Sityodtong gave Iniong a chance of a lifetime.
“Gina has been offered to fight Mei [Yamaguchi] on two weeks notice, let’s see if Gina accepts, but that is a massive fight for Gina,” the promoter shared.
This rematch is three years in the making, as Iniong was able to edge out Yamaguchi during PXC 43.
“I have faced her before, and she is always in good condition,” the 34-year-old added. “As always, I am in tiptop shape for every bout. Brace yourselves for fireworks.”
Iniong is ready for this moment, knowing that a win will earn her a crack at Lee.
“Facing Mei Yamaguchi three years ago was like going through the eye of a needle. That bout opened doors of great opportunity for me in this sport. I am expecting a tough duel with her again on November 24 in Singapore,” the Team Lakay standout said.
“I have lofty goals in ONE Championship, and I must win this match to achieve them.”
