‘It hasn’t always been easy” – BJJ phenom Danielle Kelly looks back at her career-shifting ONE debut

Reflecting on her two-year anniversary with ONE Championship, BJJ prodigy Danielle Kelly fondly remembers her career-changing debut with warm gratitude.

According to Danielle Kelly, success was not given to her on a silver platter. She put in tireless effort to achieve the title of the first-ever ONE atomweight submission grappling world champion.

Kelly recently expressed her gratitude on Instagram towards her supporters for motivating her to pursue her life-long dream.

She wrote in the caption:

“2 years ago made my walk to first match at ONE. 4-0. Lots of fun and learning events. I still have a lot to prove to myself. Looking forward to the next challenge. Thanks to those who have always been in my corner. It hasn’t always been easy.”

Achieving success as a full-time grappler is not a common feat for female jiu-jitsu practitioners. Kelly, however, was able to accomplish this, proving her determination and hard work amongst her male counterparts.

The young pioneer has gained recognition for women’s jiu-jitsu through her impressive performance in ONE Championship, beginning with her remarkable debut against Mei Yamaguchi, a seasoned MMA fighter, at ONE X.

Ever since, Kelly has experienced remarkable growth in the sport. She has defeated BJJ world champion Jessa Khan and sambo world champion Mariia Molchanova, solidifying her position as potentially the best female grappler in the world.

“Proving the Doubters Wrong”- Danielle Kelly Takes World Title at OFN 14

Danielle Kelly’s last performance at ONE Fight Night 14 on Prime Video was a powerful statement.

The Philadelphia native overcame her fears and secured victory over former rival Jessa Khan through a decision, despite many doubting Kelly’s potential to emerge victorious. The two had faced each other before outside the ONE circle, with Khan ultimately winning through a points decision.

Now that she has avenged her loss, Kelly has a strong belief in her abilities to accomplish anything and beyond.

“I envisioned this,”she told ONE. “I didn’t let the noise get to me, you know? This is what I do, this is my job and I proved that I was the best. I proved that I was better than Jessa Khan.”