Danielle Kelly shares a throwback of highlights from her ONE Championship debut a year ago

Danielle Kelly recently shared a throwback social media post about her ONE Championship debut.

In March 2022, Kelly stepped into the circle for the first time. She was matched up against former MMA atomweight title challenger Mei Yamaguchi. The American showcased a valiant effort but wasn’t able to get the finish.

As the rules dictated at the time, a non-finish results in a draw. Still, Kelly was rewarded with a $50,000 performance bonus for her effort.

A year later, the 27-year-old has posted highlights of her experience on Instagram, with the caption saying:

“1 year today (a day late because I was traveling) I made my @onechampionship debut and have had 3 matches total since. There’s a lot I am grateful for, everyone that has supported me day 1 , meeting new people and for all of the changes in my life outside. I look forward to competing on the biggest stage and improving and putting on exciting matches.”

Eight months after facing Yamaguchi, Kelly made a statement against combat sambo specialist Mariia Molchanova, securing a rear-naked choke.

The American last competed on February 24, extending her promotional record to 2-0-1 with a unanimous decision win against former strawweight MMA title challenger Ayaka Miura.

Take a look at Danielle Kelly's throwback Instagram post below:

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Danielle Kelly reflects on her treacherous journey to the top

Danielle Kelly’s journey to becoming a ONE Championship superstar wasn’t easy.

Submission grappling doesn’t get as much attention as other martial arts disciplines, and women’s grappling is slightly behind men’s divisions. Kelly recently posted an inspiring quote on Instagram that said:

“Negative words. Doubters. Little to no family support. No parents. Sleepless nights. Seeing my mom struggle to help with jiu jitsu fees as a teen. Wasn’t spoon fed. It’s these moments that are worth it. I am a product of never giving up. And grateful I get to compete and teach all over the world now, it still surprises me😅🥲 Keep your head up and work hard.”

Kelly continued by saying:

“You’ll surprise a lot of people and those who are miserable with themselves and didn’t accomplish much. Focus on you.”

It’s unclear what’s next for the American. ONE Championship has continued to sign female submission grappling competitors, which should lead to more opportunities.

Once the Asia-based promotion creates a women’s grappling world championship, Kelly will likely be associated with the inaugural throne.