5 Reasons Why Lin Heqin Could Defeat Ritu Phogat
“MMA Sister” Lin Heqin has the potential to be one of the atomweight division’s biggest stars, and a win in her next bout would be a huge step forward.
The Chinese standout will face wrestling sensation Ritu “The Indian Tigress” Phogat in a high-stakes mixed martial arts tilt at ONE: BATTLEGROUND on Friday, 30 July.
Phogat might be the bigger name, but Lin should not be counted out. Here are five reasons “MMA Sister” could overcome her talented opponent at the Singapore Indoor Stadium.
#1 She’s On A Roll
“MMA Sister” will be entering the Circle for the second time following her debut submission victory over Jomary “The Zamboanginian Fighter” Torres.
Overall, the Wenzhou native has won 11 straight fights, and she has not tasted defeat since way back in 2016.
That kind of momentum fills any competitor with confidence, and Lin’s mindset could be a major factor against a rival who just suffered her first professional defeat.
#2 She’s A Sanda Specialist
Lin started her martial arts journey with sanda and amassed a 7-1 record in the primarily stand-up art. She also earned a regional title in her home province and placed fifth in the Chinese nationals.
Those sanda skills laid the groundwork for Lin’s mixed martial arts career, especially in her kicking game, where she throws effective side kicks and roundhouse kicks.
Sanda also incorporates some wrestling, throws, and takedowns, so the clinch game was not new to “MMA Sister” when she embarked on her journey in the all-around sport.
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#3 She’ll Have A Significant Reach Advantage
The Hasheng MMA athlete can make effective use of her striking with her long reach.
Standing 167 centimeters, Lin is 11 centimeters taller than Phogat, and this advantage will be key to establishing her range and staying out of the Indian’s clutches.
Moreover, Lin’s long limbs make her a threat from her back, as she showed in the triangle victory over Torres.
#4 She’s A Proven Finisher
During her 11-bout winning streak, Lin has stopped seven of her opponents – all in the first round. Six of those came by TKO, while one came via submission.
There’s no doubt that the Hunan resident knows how to finish things inside the distance, and “The Indian Tigress” will have to be wary of that threat.
If Phogat is more anxious to pull the trigger, it could help “MMA Sister” keep things upright.
#5 She’s No Stranger To Tough Opposition
Back in 2015, Lin’s professional debut came against #2-ranked atomweight contender Meng Bo, and she went the distance with her talented compatriot.
Since then, she’s gone up against athletes from around the world, including Japan, Russia, Brazil, the United States, and Ukraine.
With that experience in her pocket, “MMA Sister” will be ready for anything inside the Circle.
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