Christian Lee says Victoria Lee needed a break after fast start to young MMA career

Victoria Lee has had some lofty expectations placed on her shoulders. The 18-year-old fighter is the younger sister of reigning ONE world titleholders Christian and Angela Lee.

'The Prodigy' made her professional MMA debut in 2021 and went a perfect 3-0 in the calendar year. But in 2022, she took some time away from the ONE circle and did not take any matches. During that time, she was able to focus on graduating high school.

Two-division world champion 'The Warrior' Christian Lee explained in an interview with ONE that it was a great decision for her to spend some time away. He said:

"Fighting three times, being so active at such a young age. I think it’s going to just take some time off, just relax, get away from the sport. Then when it comes back to you, when you have the fire, when you wanna go back into the circle and you take another fight. That’s what happened with Victoria."

With renewed focus, Victoria is likely to be back in the ONE circle in 2023. Christian added that she will be much improved:

"I think that we’re gonna see a new and improved version of Victoria Lee."

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Victoria Lee discusses MMA and school

It is not an easy task to juggle full-time studies in school with being a professional MMA fighter. Victoria Lee knows the struggle all too well.

In an interview with ONE Championship, she explained:

“When I was fighting throughout the school year, it was definitely pretty difficult to juggle, like the timing of school and training, as well as the homework. So now, it’s nice to have all that time in the day just to train. Now I get to focus on just training and it’s just a way more enjoyable experience.”

In 2022, her older brother Christian Lee was able to capture the welterweight crown, thus becoming a two-division world champion. Seeing how hard 'The Warrior' had to push himself inspired Victoria.

While speaking to ONE, she said:

“It showed the heart of a true champion. It was really inspiring in general. The way that he was able to push through and fight through that adversity and come out on top was just an amazing finish really. I think that performance is just the true definition of what a champion is. He was able to showcase his skills so perfectly and overcome the adversity and really show why he’s the double champ.”

Angela, Christian, and Victoria Lee are all likely to be back in the ONE circle in 2023. Christian and Angela will most likely defend their thrones by facing a top contender. Meanwhile, Victoria will be hoping to add vital experience to her record.