“I don’t have anyone in mind” - Mayssa Bastos ready to defend her atomweight crown against any worthy challenger
Newly crowned ONE atomweight submission grappling world champion Mayssa Bastos is ready to take on anyone the promotion puts in front of her.
Returning to martial arts' biggest global stage following a successful debut in March, the nine-time BJJ world champion did the unthinkable, dethroning undefeated fan favorite Danielle Kelly to claim the ONE atomweight submission grappling crown at ONE Fight Night 24 on Prime Video.
It was a closely contested battle that could have gone either way. But in the end, Bastos' aggressive approach — even when on her back — is what swung the decision in her favor.
Appearing at the post-fight press event, Bastos was asked who she would like to defend her title against first. Responding, the Brazilian superstar made it clear that she's ready for anyone willing to step up and give her a run for her money.
"Right now, I don't have anyone in mind, but anyone who wants to fight me, I would be happy to fight," Mayssa Bastos told reporters.
Danielle Kelly's coach gunning for immediate rematch with Mayssa Bastos
Given the close nature of the contest and considering that, by all accounts, Kelly was up on the scorecards entering the final minute of the bout, an immediate rematch between the two is a very real possibility.
Kelly has not yet reacted to the loss, but her coach, Enrique Galarza, revealed in an Instagram post that the Silver Fox BJJ product is in good spirits and that they are already looking to run it back with the new atomweight submission grappling queen.
"The champ is in good spirits ☝️ Fell short on the outcome, but the performance was that of the champion. Proud of her for giving her all out there. Time to run it back. Next time it will be better @onechampionship."
After their first meeting came down to the wire, do you want to see Mayssa Bastos and Kelly run it back right away?
If you missed any of the action, ONE Championship fans in the United States and Canada can watch the ONE Fight Night 24 replay on demand via Amazon Prime Video.