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 of the kickboxing world has been nothing short of remarkable. From a young age, she showed a natural talent for martial arts and quickly rose through the ranks in her home country of Austria. However, it was her move to Thailand to train at the world-renowned Fairtex gym that truly propelled her career to new heights.
Under the guidance of legendary coach Yodsaenklai Fairtex, Hemetsberger honed her skills and developed a fierce fighting style that has become her trademark. Her dedication and hard work paid off when she made her ONE Championship debut in 2019, quickly establishing herself as a force to be reckoned with in the atomweight division.
But it was her performance at ONE Fight Night 35 that truly solidified her place among the best in the world. Going up against the highly-touted Jackie Buntan, Hemetsberger faced a tough challenge. Buntan, a former Muay Thai world champion, was known for her aggressive style and powerful strikes. Many believed that she would be the one to dethrone Hemetsberger and claim the title for herself.
However, Hemetsberger had other plans. From the opening bell, she showed her dominance, using her superior footwork and precision striking to keep Buntan at bay. Despite Buntan’s best efforts, Hemetsberger remained in control, landing powerful combinations and showcasing her impressive arsenal of kicks.
As the fight went on, it became clear that Hemetsberger was on her way to victory. In the fifth and final round, she unleashed a flurry of strikes that left Buntan reeling and secured the unanimous decision win. The Lumpinee Stadium erupted in cheers as Hemetsberger was declared the new ONE Atomweight Kickboxing World Champion.
For Hemetsberger, the win was not just a personal triumph, but also a victory for all female fighters. In an interview after the fight, she spoke about the stigma that female fighters often face in the sport and how she hopes to change that perception.
“I want to show that women can be just as strong and skilled as men in the ring,” Hemetsberger said. “I hope my win inspires other women to pursue their dreams and break barriers in the world of combat sports.”
Her words ring true, as Hemetsberger’s win has already sparked conversations about gender equality in the sport. With her impressive skills and determination, she has become a role model for aspiring female fighters around the world.
As for her future in ONE Championship, Hemetsberger has her sights set on defending her title and taking on all challengers. With her impressive performance at ONE Fight Night 35, she has proven that she is a force to be reckoned with and is ready to take on any opponent that comes her way.
In conclusion, Stella Hemetsberger’s journey to becoming a World Champion is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and unwavering determination. Her win at ONE Fight Night 35 has solidified her place among the best in the world and has inspired a new generation of female fighters. As she continues to make her mark in the world of combat sports, there is no doubt that she will continue to be a shining example of strength and perseverance for years to come.
