Danielle Kelly: ‘People Don’t Expect Me to Win’

Danielle Kelly has been overlooked for the majority of her career.

She seeks to put an end to that narrative tomorrow at ONE Fight Night 14 on Prime Video.

Kelly is expected to lose to Jessa Khan in a bout for the inaugural ONE Championship women’s atomweight submission grappling championship. Yet she has altogether different plans.

She has heard plenty that she is overmatched by Khan, the 21-year-old sensation who already defeated her once. But just like she has done for the past 27 years, Kelly is seeking to defy the odds.

“I’ve heard Jessa’s better,” admitted Kelly. “I’ve heard how good she is, I’ve heard I can’t beat her. I’ve been reminded she already beat me once. But I’m going to prove everyone wrong.”

The fight, which airs primetime in the United States from the Singapore Indoor Stadium, allows an opportunity for Kelly to rewrite her destiny. She was the victim of bullying as a child, as well as battled through the anguish of losing both parents. Embracing jiu-jitsu opened an entirely new world for her, one where she can overcome hardship and pain. The hard work is paying off, as she is only one victory away from becoming a world champion.

Known for her jiu-jitsu, this is a chance for Kelly to showcase her grappling. She has won her last three decisions in ONE. Her most difficult defeat was suffered against Khan, who won their submission-only bout in February of 2021 by decision. For Kelly, this title fight offers a shot at redemption in more ways than one.

“Since I started competing, I’ve learned a lot about myself,” said Kelly. “I’m more motivated than ever to get a win back on Jessa, and to prove I can be a world champion.

“I know people don’t believe in me, but I’ve grown so much as a grappler–and now I can showcase it against a world-class grappler. Camp hasn’t been fun. I’ve pushed myself through injuries, but I’m here to prove why I am going to be champion.”

Championship opportunities are rare. Kelly has earned this opportunity, one she must seize. Throughout her camp, she has looked repeatedly at a screenshot of Khan celebrating after defeating her in their last bout. The photo serves as a reminder of the pain that the loss caused–and implores her to find a way to win the rematch.

“It’s constant motivation,” said Kelly. “I have a lot to prove to myself. A lot of people don’t expect me to win. A lot of people don’t think I can beat her. But they don’t know me.

I’m ready, I’m here, and I want this. Mentally, I’m ready and prepared. This time, I’m fighting for me.”