“I used to be so obsessed” - Danielle Kelly says managing fighting and work is key to world championship success
Reigning and undisputed ONE women's atomweight submission grappling world champion Danielle Kelly of the United States says there is a fine line you have to cross from being a professional to being obsessed that will lead to world championship greatness.
The 28-year-old is one of the most talented and most accomplished submission grapplers in the world today. She is a world champion in ONE Championship, the world's largest martial arts organization.
She has only been able to reach her level of greatness behind hard work and dedication. But the American phenom says it takes even more to achieve what she has at the highest levels.
Speaking in a recent guest appearance on the Few Will Hunt show, Kelly talked about the intrinsic requirements of being a world champion.
She said:
"I used to be so obsessed. I still am. If you're doing something and you don't love it or obsessed with it, then why? I still love what I do. It's just, right now, it's work. I can't just be, I don't feel like training today. No, I have to go and train because it's my job. I'm a champion. It's just like fighting. Fighters who are champions, or they're getting ready for a fight, you have to stay prepared. I wish I could be, like, nope, not training after this. Like, whatever."
Fans won't have to wait long to see Kelly back in action next week.
Danielle Kelly to defend atomweight gold against decorated Mayssa Bastos at ONE Fight Night 24 on Prime Video
Reigning atomweight submission grappling titleholder Danielle Kelly is set to defend her gold against decorated Brazilian jiujiteiro Mayssa Bastos in the co-main event at ONE Fight Night 24: Brooks vs. Balart on Prime Video.
The event broadcasts live from the historic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on Friday, August 2nd.
Fans in the United States and Canada can catch all the action live and absolutely free on Amazon Prime Video. Stay tuned to Sportskeeda MMA for all the latest news and updates on the event as it happens.