MANAMA, Bahrain — Filipina mixed martial arts prodigy Charlie Ratcliffe delivered another golden moment for Team Philippines after a dominant first-round submission victory over Thailand’s Nakanantaphon Khaihong in the Girls’ 45-kg Modern division of the 3rd Asian Youth Games on Saturday at Exhibition World – Hall 1.
Ratcliffe wasted no time asserting control against the Thai jiu-jitsu specialist, unleashing an aggressive opening attack that forced Khaihong to the mat before locking in a swift neck submission. The match ended at the 1:57 mark of the first round, giving the 17-year-old Filipino her country’s second gold medal in the Games.
“I never expected the fight to end that quickly, but I was ready,” said Ratcliffe, who had studied her opponent’s previous bouts online. “I made sure I knew her moves. Preparation really made the difference.”
The young standout, who has trained in multiple combat disciplines, vowed to keep representing the Philippines across sports.
“I hope this won’t be my last gold. Whether it’s MMA, jiu-jitsu, or wrestling—I’ll always be ready for the country when my time comes,” she said.
Ratcliffe’s triumph also followed her brother Travis Ratcliffe’s silver-medal finish in the Boys’ Traditional category, marking a proud day for the Ratcliffe siblings and the Philippine contingent.
With her win, the Philippines improved its medal tally to two golds, two silvers, and three bronzes midway through the competition.
