Nina Meinke is aiming for the next big milestone in Hamburg. Despite difficult preparation and injury last year, the IBF world champion is confident going into her fight against Dyana Vargas.
Nina Meinke is facing one of the most important tasks of her career. In Hamburg, the Berlin featherweight will not only be defending her world title, but also fighting for the IBO world championship belt – and in a very special setting. The location is unusual, but the objective is clear: Meinke wants to control the fight and prove her class. Against Dyana Vargas, who is known for her toughness and stamina, the 33-year-old will be relying on her experience – especially over the unusual distance of twelve rounds.
Meinke sees this as an advantage. While many fighters are used to shorter distances, she feels particularly comfortable with longer fights. Her style is designed to find her way into the fight, control the pace and control her opponent step by step. The preparation was intensive. In Spain, Meinke completed numerous sparring sessions against strong opponents and regularly went the full distance. An important foundation for the upcoming title evening.
The fact that she is back in the ring in this form is not a matter of course. After a back injury last year, she had to change her training and find new ways of doing things. Today, she looks fitter than ever – and goes into the fight with a mixture of ease and determination.
Text by Robin Josten