In the realm of combat sports, a rising star is emerging, and her name is Danielle Kelly. This standout grappler, currently under the banner of ONE Championship, is making waves not just for her impressive skills on the mat, but also for her contemplation of a transition into the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).
While there is no concrete date set for this transition, it is undeniable that MMA is destined to play a significant role in Kelly’s combat sports journey. In an exclusive interview, the determined athlete expressed her confidence in eventually leaping MMA while keeping her focus on furthering her grappling career for the time being.
“I still have to prove myself a lot in jiu-jitsu,” Kelly emphasized. “If I make the jump to MMA right away, I won’t feel I am complete. Some things will have to be negotiated, but when that time comes, I will be ready just whenever that is, but right now I am focused on jiu-jitsu.”
Kelly’s upcoming challenge is a rematch against Jessa Khan, and it is a pivotal one. The bout is for the inaugural ONE women’s atom weight submission grappling title, a significant achievement on her checklist before contemplating the shift to MMA.
“When I become a world champion when I beat more legends, then maybe I will make the walk over,” Kelly revealed. “Eventually I want to transition to MMA because that’s why I signed up for jiu-jitsu in the first place because I was getting bullied. It wasn’t as popular when I started, but now women’s jiu-jitsu and MMA are a lot more popular.”
Kelly’s journey in combat sports has been remarkable. Although she hasn’t stepped into the MMA cage, she has already faced and defeated notable MMA talents in the world of grappling. Her list of conquests includes former UFC champion Carla Esparza, and UFC veterans Cynthia Calvillo and Roxanne Modafferi.
When asked about her readiness for the transition to MMA, Kelly displayed a deep understanding of the sport’s multifaceted nature. She recognizes that a solid base in striking is crucial, but her grappling expertise is what sets her apart.
“If you just know your basics, you are going to get far,” Kelly asserted. “You need a good base of striking to defend yourself, and I know it is easier said than done. It is getting tougher and tougher in combat sports. Women’s combat sports are catching up with the guys. I feel like with MMA girls, if they have a good, solid jiu-jitsu base, they are unstoppable.”
Danielle Kelly’s journey from grappling sensation to potential MMA star is one that fans of combat sports should keep a close eye on. Her dedication to mastering the art of grappling and her future aspirations in MMA showcase her tenacity and ambition. While she acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead, her confidence and skill set could very well make her a force to be reckoned with in the world of Mixed Martial Arts.
Kelly’s perspective on the importance of a strong grappling foundation in MMA is intriguing. As the sport continues to evolve, we have witnessed the rise of fighters who excel in one discipline and use it as a launching pad to success. Kelly’s transition to MMA, should she choose to make it, could be a breath of fresh air, emphasizing the significance of grappling in a sport where striking often takes the spotlight.
