Italy’s own Micol Di Segni is set to return to the Power Slap stage at Power Slap 16 in Abu Dhabi — and she couldn’t be more excited. Facing Pita Macias, a decorated judo Olympian, Di Segni views the matchup as both a challenge and a milestone moment in her career.
Back in Action and Heading to Abu Dhabi
“It’s going to be so awesome,” Di Segni said. “I was aiming to be on this card because I’ve never been to Abu Dhabi. For me, it’s going to be great to be there for the first time.”
After her successful Power Slap 12 debut against Chelsea Dobson, Di Segni has been eager to compete again — and this time, she knows exactly what to expect.
“For sure, now I know what’s waiting for me,” she said. “I’ve been training hard to improve my slaps — more power, more precision, and better range of movement.”
Respect for Her Opponent
Di Segni speaks about her upcoming opponent with admiration and focus.
“Pita is a judo Olympian, so her rotational power is strong,” she explained. “We’re both MMA fighters and Contender Series veterans, so I know she’s tough. After what she did to Chelsea’s nose, I know she’s scary for everyone — but that’s exactly why I want this fight.”
The two have even shared training time in the past.
“I trained with her before. I like her as a person and as a fighter,” Di Segni said. “That makes this matchup even better — I know her power firsthand.”
Training and Preparation
Her preparation for Abu Dhabi has been laser-focused on the fundamentals that make elite strikers great.
“I’m working a lot on explosive power, rotational power, and precision,” she said. “I’ve kept my boxing and kickboxing, but added exercises focused directly on Power Slap movements.”
Di Segni’s attention to detail extends beyond training — she’s been meticulous with nutrition, weighing meals and tracking macros.
“I’m being really serious about my diet and supplements. No pasta or cake until after the competition,” she laughed.
Changing Perceptions in Italy
As one of the few European Power Slap athletes, Di Segni has become a key ambassador for the sport in her home country.
“When I first started, people in Italy thought Power Slap was ridiculous — not even a sport,” she recalled. “But I’ve done podcasts, interviews, and helped educate people about it. Now, many athletes — even from other sports — ask if they can join or if I’d create a Power Slap league in Italy.”
She proudly embraces the role:
“I’m really happy to be the Italian face for Power Slap.”
Learning from Experience
Reflecting on her debut, Di Segni admitted it wasn’t easy.
“I was scared at first,” she said. “In MMA, you can block or move. In Power Slap, you just take it. But once I took those slaps from Chelsea, I knew I could do this. Now I respect the sport and its athletes even more.”
Her MMA background, she believes, helps her stay calm and fearless under pressure.
“I’d rather take three slaps than a hundred punches,” she said with a grin. “But those slaps hit hard. The impact is real.”
The Flyweight Division and Future Goals
Both Di Segni and Tuiseka will compete at 125 lbs (Flyweight) — a weight class where Di Segni feels most comfortable.
“I’m never going back to 115,” she laughed. “I cut too much weight back then. At 125, I feel strong and healthy — it’s the best I’ve ever performed.”
That newfound comfort has given her a creative edge — and a touch of Italian flair.
“In Italy, we call a slap a ‘pizza,’” she said. “So after my first win, I got a pizza tattoo on my slap hand. This time, I’m bringing pizzas to the table!”
Ready for Abu Dhabi
As she prepares to travel, Di Segni is eager to experience the culture, the fans, and the energy of the UAE.
“It’s going to be amazing — new place, new food, new people,” she said. “I’m excited to bring my best and put on a show for Abu Dhabi.”
Micol Di Segni vs. Pita Tuiseka at Power Slap 16 promises to deliver one of the most intriguing women’s matchups yet — a battle of power, precision, and pride between two international athletes with deep combat roots.