Virna Urani, a Filipina expatriate originally from Tinglayan, Kalinga, and Baguio City, secured a gold medal at the Muay Thai Open Masters Games on Sunday, defeating Brazil’s Juliana Henrique via unanimous decision.
Competing in the 45–48 kg weight category, Urani overcame a size disadvantage to claim the top spot on the podium during the two-day event held Feb. 8–9. Urani, who transitioned from a CrossFit athlete in Baguio to a Muay Thai coach and fighter in the United Arab Emirates, credited her victory to a “smart” tactical approach against a heavier opponent.
“The fight was challenging as I fought a heavier weight category, but I trained for this,” Urani said. “I’ve trained my mind that I can give a good fight, keeping an eye to get points and not just going all in. I fought smart, not hard.”
Urani’s journey to the gold was guided by her cousin and coach, Juniefer Tanding Narciza of CXG Combat Gear. Narciza mentored Urani’s transition from CrossFit to the technical rigors of Muay Thai after she moved to Dubai.
The path to the championship required a rigorous balancing act, with Urani training twice daily between her professional responsibilities.
“Consistency is key; discipline is everything,” Urani said. “It’s not every day you’ll find the motivation, but discipline is what keeps you going. Once you step in the ring, you’re already a winner as not everyone can do what you do.”
Urani said she hopes her victory serves as an inspiration to fellow Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and aspiring fighters, emphasizing that personal discipline is the ultimate opponent.
“I wish I’ve inspired our fellow fighters… that you can do whatever you wish to if you’d work on it,” she said. “It’s just you versus you. Everything is possible.” Roderick Osis