
Expect Team Lakay's atomweight contender Gina Iniong stepping into the ONE Circle anytime soon.
Team Lakay coach Mark Sangiao confirmed that Iniong, who just gave birth to newborn daughter Gianna Rose over the week, has decided to continue her mixed martial arts career.
Read: Team Lakay welcomes Gina Iniong’s newborn daughter
Iniong's pregnancy prompted the former No. 5 atomweight contender to consider retiring from the sport. But as her moniker "Conviction" implies, Iniong showed her willingness for a fresh start.
"When she’s all fit to start her training, then she’s back," said Sangiao.
So what's next for the 31-year-old Iniong?
Sangiao said Iniong expressed eagerness to join the upcoming World Atomweight Grand Prix set early next year, pitting her against top-caliber athletes in the division with final participants yet to be announced.
"ut she needs to be patient and approach it at the right time. I have no doubt she will be better than ever. Gina is very much motivated. She’s focused and determined,” said Sangiao.
Led by champion Angela Lee, who is currently on a hiatus due to pregnancy, the atomweight division's Top 5 consists of Filipina Denice Zamboanga (No. 1), Chinese Meng Bo (No. 2), Lin Heqin of China (No. 3), Japanese Mei Yamaguchi (No. 4), and Thai Stamp Fairtex (No. 5).
“We have seen how Gina performs in the ring or in the Circle, and she’s capable of anything. She has great wins facing some outstanding athletes. Of course, there is still a lot of room for improvement," added Sangiao.
"But she’s eager to learn and enhance her skills. I think fans will be happy when she returns. If she can get a spot in the tournament, we will do our best to prepare her."
Iniong holds a 9-4 MMA record, winning five of seven matches in ONE Championship with the most recent win against Asha Roka of India via unanimous decision last January in ONE: Fire & Fury.