TOUGH times create tough people. In fact, it is the best quote to describe Malaysian flyweight Gianni Subba.
The past 24 months have been a long time for the talented warrior, and though his drive has dented at times, Subba coolly pushes forward.
“I would be lying if I said I don’t feel anything whenever I see these guys at flyweight compete,” the 27-year-old said, still hoping for another chance on the global stage of martial arts.
“It hurts to just watch these guys at my weight competing because I can’t compete, but it is what it is. I just go back into the gym and create a belief that this will all end at some point.”
That emotion he feels does take a toll at some point, however, he still arrives at the doors of his gym in Indonesia with an unbreakable spirit.
Whether it is sharpening his tools, training with fellow ONE comrades “Jungle Cat” Muhammad Aiman and “The Panda” Xiong Jing Nan, or coaching other individuals, there is not a day where Subba does not give 100%.
Keeping himself busy strays his mind away from the injury that prevents him from competing in the Circle, and also it gives him a belief that a return is not that far away.
“To be honest, the past 12 months have been so much better than the first 12,” he said.
“I’ve kept myself busy doing the commentating gigs, while even traveling to a lot of new places to corner my teammate. Despite all the struggle, there’s always a positive outcome.”
“Apart from that, I’ve been speaking to Bashir and updating him about my progress. I’ve been speaking to the neurosurgeons too, and I’ll be sending in a formal appeal again to ONE Championship. I’m just focused on getting a couple more clears.”
Injuries are a big hurdle to any warrior’s dreams, but every professional athlete should learn how to attack the situation the way Subba does.
Though there are no guarantees what the year may bring for the Bali-based hero, he is certain that he will be sweating it out in the Circle as soon as he receives the green light from all parties.
“I’m patiently waiting, and I hope I can compete in 2020. One thing’s for sure, my brother Keanu will return to action before me!”
Up next for ONE Championship is ONE: FIRE & FURY in Manila, Philippines on Friday, Jan 31.
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