MMA phenom Adrian Lee says his family is his backbone to success: “Their support is everything to me”
Adrian Lee wouldn't be where he is today if it weren't for the support of his family. In June, the 18-year-old phenom made his promotional debut at ONE 167, securing a second-round submission victory over Antonio Mammarella via rear-naked choke.
On Friday, Sept. 6, he'll return to the Circle looked for a second-straight win when he meets ONE Championship newcomer Nico Cornejo at ONE 168: Denver.
Ahead of his highly anticipated return, Lee sat down with Cageside Press to talk about his famous family and how their undying support has helped him succeed as an amateur fighter and now as a professional.
"Their support is everything to me," Lee said. "I wouldn't be here without my brother, my dad, and anyone in my corner. Whoever had helped me along the way."
Lee, of course, is the younger brother of Christian Lee, ONE Championship's reigning lightweight and welterweight MMA world champion, and Angela Lee, former atomweight queen and the youngest fighter in mixed martial arts history to win a world championship.
Adrian Lee continues to draw motivation from sister Victoria Lee after her passing
Adrian Lee also finds inspiration from his other sister, the late Victoria Lee.
Appropriately nicknamed 'The Prodigy,' Victoria Lee earned three straight finishes inside the Circle before she even graduated high school. Sadly, she passed away in late 2022, cutting the 18-year-old's life and career in combat sports tragically short.
Adrian Lee, who was very close to his sister, continues to find motivation knowing that her spirit will always be by his side throughout all of his endeavors.
"I stay motivated and focused by staying in the gym," Lee told Today Online. "As long as I'm training, there are no other thoughts... My sister Victoria has inspired me in all (aspects) of life, and she'll continue to walk by my side throughout my journey."
ONE 168: Denver will air live on Amazon Prime Video in U.S. primetime in both the United States and Canada on Friday, Sept. 6. Follow this link for tickets to attend the event live at Ball Arena.