“My confidence was so low” - Danielle Kelly recalls how bullying took a toll on her growing up
Reigning and undisputed ONE women's atomweight submission grappling world champion Danielle Kelly of the United States was bullied in school growing up. But it's this unfortunate experience that ultimately led the 28-year-old to take up jiu-jitsu and become one of the best grapplers in the world.
Speaking in a guest appearance on The Few Will Hunt Show, Kelly described her experience getting bullied, and how it shaped her to be the person she is today.
The Silver Fox BJJ said:
"At such a young age, when all that's happening, it takes a toll on you, especially my confidence. And I'll get into that, like, starting jiu-jitsu. My confidence was so low. I was a new person, I had no friends. I can't really rely on my brother, because he was a grade above me, he had his own stuff going on, and then, backstory, my dad was just getting sick. So as a kid, it was just a lot."
Kelly is set to make her next appearance in a world title defense against dangerous Mayssa Bastos.
Kelly and Bastos lock horns 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.
Danielle Kelly leaning on support system to power her through tough camp: "Everyone's pushing me"
28-year-old American superstar Danielle Kelly hasn't seen action since September of 2023, almost a year ago. And she feels it may have an effect on her performance.
Which is why Kelly says this particular training camp has been absolutely crucial to her success, and she's thankful for the team around her.
She told Home of Fight:
"I'm not going to lie, it's it's kind of new to me cause I mean I competed since like back in September and just like competing in there, it's going to feel like a little new, so I kind I'm going to have probably like ring rust or something. But you know everyone's pushing me in my team, so I'm pretty confident."