Danielle Kelly embraces her role model status for younger female athletes 

As the inaugural ONE Atomweight Submission Grappling World Champion, Danielle Kelly knows her actions carry weight. There are many young ladies looking up to the American grappling star, and that’s a responsibility she takes seriously. 

Kelly has the chance to reclaim the atomweight crown from reigning queen Mayssa Bastos in an immediate rematch when they square off at ONE Fight Night 26: Lee vs. Rasulov on Friday, December 6. 

At 28-years-old, Kelly is in the prime of her competitive career. And back home at Silver Fox BJJ in New Jersey, there are a wealth of female students that see her leading the way. Kelly feels that weight, and it’s a position she’s happy to make the most of. 

“When I go out there, sometimes I kinda have to remind myself – we always forget when we have a lot of distractions in life,” Kelly said. 

“But, at the end of the day, especially when I’m competing out there, I’m representing females. I’m representing jiu-jitsu girls.” 

Combat sports has long been proven as a great way to get kids off the street, out of trouble, and into the gym. That’s also one of Kelly’s ambitions.  

Whether it’s teaching young students on the mats or giving them advice for life, the American is happy to assist the next generation of athletes. 

“It’s cool to try to guide kids, especially the younger generation because they definitely need that. They need a role model, a good role model to look up to,” Kelly said. 

“It’s an emotional feeling, but that’s why I do this. It’s for them and helping the next generation.” 

Danielle Kelly looks to avenge defeat against Mayssa Bastos at ONE Fight Night 26

Former ONE Atomweight Submission Grappling World Champion Danielle Kelly is on a mission to reclaim the weight bracket’s crown. 

Kelly lost it to Mayssa Bastos after ten grueling minutes this past August at ONE Fight Night 24. 

The setback came after she dominated three of her divisional opponents. And when she locks up with Bastos once more next month, Kelly will want to prove August’s defeat was nothing more than a bump in the road.