Austrian standout Stella Hemetsberger had long dreamed of becoming a World Champion, but nothing could have prepared her for the magnitude of her career-defining triumph at ONE Fight Night 35: Buntan vs. Hemetsberger on Prime Video. On Saturday, September 6, at the iconic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, the 26-year-old etched her name in history by claiming the ONE Atomweight Kickboxing World Championship title.
Hemetsberger’s journey to the top was not an easy one. She faced numerous challenges and setbacks, but her determination and unwavering spirit kept her going. From a young age, she was drawn to martial arts and began training in various disciplines. However, it was kickboxing that captured her heart and became her passion.
As she honed her skills and climbed the ranks, Hemetsberger faced criticism and doubt from those who believed that women should not be fighting. But she refused to let these opinions discourage her. Instead, she used them as motivation to prove her detractors wrong.
Her hard work and dedication paid off when she was signed by ONE Championship, the world’s largest martial arts organization. Hemetsberger’s debut in the promotion was a resounding success, as she defeated her opponent with a dominant performance. This victory earned her a shot at the ONE Atomweight Kickboxing World Championship, and she was determined to make the most of this opportunity.
Her opponent for the title bout was none other than Jackie Buntan, a highly skilled and experienced fighter. Buntan was the favorite going into the fight, but Hemetsberger was not intimidated. She knew that she had put in the work and was ready to give it her all.
The atmosphere at Lumpinee Stadium was electric as the two warriors stepped into the ring. The crowd was on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating an epic showdown. And that’s exactly what they got.
From the opening bell, Hemetsberger showed her dominance, landing powerful strikes and showcasing her superior technique. Buntan, on the other hand, refused to back down and fought back with all her might. The two fighters went back and forth, exchanging blows and putting on a show for the fans.
As the fight progressed, it became clear that Hemetsberger was in control. She was landing more significant strikes and dictating the pace of the fight. In the final round, she unleashed a barrage of punches and kicks, leaving Buntan reeling. The judges had no choice but to award Hemetsberger the victory, making her the new ONE Atomweight Kickboxing World Champion.
The emotions were overwhelming for Hemetsberger as she raised her hands in victory. She had achieved her lifelong dream and become a World Champion. But more than that, she had proven that anything is possible with hard work, determination, and a never-give-up attitude.
In her post-fight interview, Hemetsberger expressed her gratitude to ONE Championship for giving her the opportunity to showcase her skills on the biggest stage. She also thanked her team and fans for their unwavering support throughout her journey.
But perhaps the most inspiring moment came when Hemetsberger addressed the stigma surrounding female fighters. She acknowledged that there are still people who believe that women should not be fighting, but she refused to let that affect her. Instead, she urged others to break free from these stereotypes and embrace their passion for martial arts.
Hemetsberger’s victory at ONE Fight Night 35 was not just a win for herself, but for all women in combat sports. She showed that gender does not define one’s abilities and that women are just as capable of achieving greatness in the world of martial arts.
As she continues her reign as the ONE Atomweight Kickboxing World Champion, Hemetsberger will undoubtedly inspire many more young girls and women to pursue their dreams and break barriers. She has proven that with hard work, determination, and a strong mindset, anything is possible. And for that, she will always be remembered as a true champion in and out of the ring.