Iman powers to record fourth world title defence

The 23-year-old Melton fighter defeated Ilsury Hendrikse in Holland and has now defended her world title more times than any fighter for the well-respected Dutch martial arts promoters.

She first won the distinctive pink Enfusion world belt in 2012 with a memorable win at the O2 Arena, in London, and has since defended it in Dublin, Slovakia and Majorca.

Travelling over to the Netherlands for her latest bout, Iman once again had to contend with a late change in challenger with the Dutch fighter having just a week to prepare for the contest.

The bout started at a fast pace with the Melton fighter using her signature right body kick, while Hendrikse tried to use her hands as a counter measure.

Iman began to boss the bout in the second round, but her opponent showed pedigree and class in refusing to give up the fight.

The Assassin began to look jaded and show the effects of a busy recent schedule in the third round, but remained firmly in control.

Despite tiring, Iman continued to power through, and several times in the fourth round her opponent looked hurt and finished, but she managed to hang on and see out the five rounds.

Iman’s dad and trainer Mark Barlow said: “Iman has fought twice in two weeks and wasn’t at her best, and it showed in the third round,

“But she showed that even when not at her best she still has the power and a lot of class.”

* To train with the Assassins, visit the Assassin Muay Thai Facebook page.