November 23, 2024

Xiong Jing Nan Welcomes Superbout Against Angela Lee

ONE Women’s Strawweight World Champion “The Panda” Xiong Jing Nan was dominant in her first title defense.

In June, at ONE: PINNACLE OF POWER, the 30-year-old from Beijing, China used an overwhelming blend of striking and wrestling to soundly defeat Argentinian contender Laura “La Gladiadora” Balin via unanimous decision.

A few weeks on from the event, Xiong has had some time to reflect on her decisive win, and think about her future – including the possibility of a World Champion VS World Champion superbout with “Unstoppable” Angela Lee.

In this exclusive interview, “The Panda” talks about her strategy, how a bout with the ONE Women’s Atomweight World Champion might play out, and much more.

ONE Championship: Congratulations on defeating Laura Balin. What was your strategy for the match?

Xiong Jing Nan: I treat every fight seriously from my heart. For this match, I was more focused on my stand-up and my wrestling.

ONE: You are known for your boxing, but you showed a strong wrestling game. How much did training at Bali MMA help your wrestling?

XJN: Bali MMA was a huge help in every aspect of my training and life.

My striking coach Mike Ikilei always helped me with my stand-up skills, even after regular training time – and coach Don Carlo-Clauss helped me with my wrestling skills.

I kept practicing and training non-stop, thanks to having them by my side.

ONE: Were you disappointed you were not able to get the finish?

XJN: I really respect Laura. She is a very great fighter, and there was nothing disappointing for me.

Every fight is a chance to find out who you really are and what you really want. She gave me a chance to find what I am lacking so I could improve myself.

ONE: When would you like to compete next?

XJN: To be honest, this process has been very exhausting – from the early preparation to the fight’s end.

In my first fight for the belt [with Tiffany Teo in January], I was injured, and it has taken some time to recover. Also, I had problems in my life that led to an incomplete recovery. But when I got my bout with Laura, I adjusted my physical and mental conditions.

I really look forward to getting back to my real strength as soon as possible. I hope I can walk in the cage next time with my real inner “Panda.”

ONE: Is there anyone in the women’s strawweight division you want to face?

XJN: It does not matter who I face. Every fighter provides a new learning opportunity – not only for my skills, but it also allows me to better understand myself.

ONE: ONE Women’s Atomweight World Champion Angela Lee said she wanted to challenge you for your title. Does a match with her interest you?

XJN: I really like her. She is an extraordinary fighter. I believe we could learn from each other. Her stand-up skills and her ground skills are her strong points – especially her ground skills.

ONE: What are your goals moving forward in ONE?

XJN: This is very easy and simple – to try my best in every fight. Also, I want to give my best to the people who support me and love me.

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