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Model-turned-fighter Rome Trinidad hopes to empower women


MANILA - Model-turned-MMA fighter Rome Trinidad is not only looking to win but also empower women when she makes her ONE Championship debut against Rika Ishige on the undercard of "ONE: Warriors of the World" on December 9 at Bangkok, Thailand's Impact Arena.

Trinidad, who previously appeared in a popular beer commercial, pointed out that martial arts was not for men only, and that she was proof that women were capable of competing in such a tough sport.

“I started martial arts at a young age. It was a challenge to me, especially in a discipline that was practiced by men. I felt so empowered as I progressed in Sikaran. Martial arts is my passion. I'm really happy when I share and learn new things about martial arts with others,” said Trinidad.

“I'm surrounded by people who support me in training. It makes me stronger. Martial arts are not only for men. If you look at me, I am the living proof that women can do it. Whether you are a child, old, short, or tall, everyone is welcome in the martial arts community.”

Trinidad argued that mixed martial arts tended to get misinterpreted by many observers. In what many have said was a violent sport, Trinidad was out to prove that MMA was more than what meets the eye.

“Most people do not understand mixed martial arts. They think it has no rules and barbaric. I want to show them it is not like that. It is a real sport, and me, I am a small girl, but I can fight in a world class organization. It is not brutal. It is about technique,” Trinidad emphasized.

“I would like to continue this campaign for everyone who doesn't understand the beauty of this sport. Martial arts are not about fighting. Its real aim is to empower both men and women. We’ve already seen what women can do inside the cage. It’s a high time to unleash our full potential in this sport.”

Trinidad is tasked to overcome the more experienced Ishige in her first appearance at ONE Championship. And while it's fair to say that she was the underdog in the upcoming fight, Trinidad was confident she could claim the victory in front of her foe’s hometown crowd.

“My bout against a well-revered Thai martial artist like Rika Ishige is a must-win fight for me. My family is going to watch. Not only that, the whole country will be watching as my bout will be broadcasted live worldwide. I know she is a good fighter with a good background in martial arts. Plus, she is more experienced than me,” conceded Trinidad.

“But one important key to success is self-confidence. The trait has always been with me in this journey. I look at things optimistically. The important thing for success is self-confidence. The key to self-confidence is preparation, and I am well prepared for this fight. If I have good preparation, I can fight anybody. And for sure, I can walk out victorious.” — DVM, GMA News

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