The scorecards told the story, but Stella Hemetsberger's emotions in the post-fight interview revealed the true magnitude of her stunning upset victory over Jackie Buntan in the main event of ONE Fight Night 35.
Two thunderous right hands in the opening round changed everything for the 26-year-old Austrian, who dropped the kickboxing champion twice to seize control of the ONE Women's Strawweight Muay Thai World Championship.
Those early knockdowns proved the difference in a gruelling five-round war that saw Buntan mount a valiant comeback attempt in the later rounds.
"As I said before the fight, we prepared for everything. I just tried to put my heart in there and do everything I'm capable of, and I'm very happy it played out that way," Hemetsberger said.
The Salzburg native's preparation at Phuket Fight Club clearly paid dividends, as she weathered Buntan's experience and championship resolve to secure a unanimous decision victory.
Her confidence never wavered, even against one of the sport's most seasoned fighters.
"Obviously getting two knockdowns give confidence, but I think I felt confident before the fight as well, and trusting in my abilities and trusting in my team, trusting in me. But the first two knockdowns helped to boost it," she explained.
The victory carries deeper significance beyond personal achievement, as Hemetsberger becomes a trailblazer for Austrian martial arts on the global stage.
"I'm the first contracted fighter in ONE Championship [from Austria], and now I'm the first Austrian to win a ONE Championship belt. It feels amazing to represent my country here in ONE Championship," the emotional new champion declared.
Her ambitious nature immediately surfaced when discussing future opportunities, with her sights already set on potentially challenging Buntan in the kickboxing realm.
"I actually would like to give myself a go in kickboxing rules as well if I get the chance and the opportunity too," Hemetsberger revealed.
Leave a comment
Please login to leave a comment.