Jihin says representing Malaysia brings her to tears

However, there is one thing that leaves her in tears — the once in a lifetime opportunity to represent Malaysia.

The 20-year-old athlete said she still feels butterflies in her stomach when she competes, even after five professional mixed martial arts bouts.

“It’s the same thing over again. Whenever I walk to the ring or the cage, I just feel like I want to cry,” she confessed.

“I usually don’t cry before my fights, but sometimes when I go back home and recall what I’ve achieved, I do cry a bit.”

What makes it more meaningful for the ONE Championship rising star is the amount of support she receives from her Malaysian fans — especially in her first three appearances in Kuala Lumpur against Puja Tomar, Priscilla Hertati Lumban Gaol, and Jenny Huang.

“I’m touched. Not everyone gets this opportunity, so we must be proud of this rare chance,” she added.

“The proudest thing about representing Malaysia is that I have fans from various races and religions. To me, I do not pick any preferred group of fans, as I see all of them as one.

“The fans see me as ‘Malaysia’s Shadow Cat’ and I want to make them proud every time I fight.”

Although the Wushu World Champion fell short in her latest quest against the Philippines’ Gina “Conviction” Iniong, she promised to be even better when she returns to action.

“I could have done better. I froze a bit, but I won’t feel disappointed now,” she said. “It was a good experience. Lesson learned, but I’ll come back stronger.”