"Be a world champion and inspire people" - Mayssa Bastos on the cusp of realizing her dream if she beats Danielle Kelly
Since coming across jiu-jitsu at an early stage in life, Mayssa Bastos has had very clear ambitions.
The Brazilian has always been involved in some form of martial arts after starting out with judo alongside her father and brothers.
Making the switch to jiu-jitsu has proven to be an incredibly wise decision for Bastos thanks to the success that she has achieved. As a nine-time IBJJF world champion, she has one of the biggest trophy cabinets of any female grappler to ever step foot on the mats.
At ONE Fight Night 24, she's after a different accolade when she faces Danielle Kelly for the ONE atomweight submission grappling world championship.
Before she gets the opportunity to compete in this high-stakes clash at Lumpinee Stadium, Bastos reflected on her journey and motivation that has now led her to this point, telling ONE Championship in a recent interview:
"As I started jiu-jitsu very early, my dream has always been to live from jiu-jitsu. I wanted to be an athlete, wanted to be a black belt, be a world champion and inspire people."
Mayssa Bastos has a history of success
The career accomplishments of Mayssa Bastos speak for themselves and prove why her dedication has been worth it. She will have undoubtedly inspired others and made her loved ones proud but she still shows no signs of slowing down.
At just 26 years old, Bastos still has plenty of fuel left in the tank despite the fact that she could retire tomorrow and leave behind a very impressive career.
The ONE atomweight submission grappling world championship is the next prize she has in her sights, and history has proven that she tends to get her way.
Taking the belt from Kelly on August 2 isn't something she's underestimating, even with the success that she has achieved throughout her career.
ONE Fight Night 24 will air live at US Primetime, free of charge for Prime Video subscribers in the United States and Canada.