Iniong steps in for Angela Lee in ONE's Singapore card

MANILA, Philippines — It’s reaping season for Gina Iniong.

After convincingly defeating two assignments ONE Championship announced that the Team Lakay ward will be facing Mei Yamaguchi in “Immortal Pursuit” showpiece in Singapore.

Iniong, who just topped Hertati Lumban Gaol last Friday, was offered to step into Atomweight champion Angela Lee’s stead in the fight night nine days from now to which the former happily obliged.

"Opo, tatanggapin ko kasi nag-train naman po ako, tapos ensayado pa naman po ako,” she said during the “Legends of the World” post-fight presser.

Lee figured in a vehicular accident which will require recovery for six months. The tussle with Yamaguchi would’ve been a rematch between the division’s top two fighters.

Iniong, though, will be needing no introductory rites when she takes on Yamaguchi as they already squared off in PXC, where the Baguio City native emerged victorious via split decision.

“Facing Mei Yamaguchi three years ago was like going through the eye of a needle,” she said through ONE. "That bout opened doors of great opportunity for me in this sport. I am expecting a tough duel with her again.”

Yamaguchi, for her part, commended the Pinay for taking up the offer on such short notice.

“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. Gina is in good hands, training with no less than the best at Team Lakay,” the 16-10-1 Japanese said.

"As always, I am in tiptop shape for every bout. Brace yourselves for fireworks,” she continued.

"I have lofty goals in ONE Championship, and I must win this match to achieve them,” Iniong declared.

The two fighters duke it out on November 24 at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. — Denison Rey A. Dalupang