Former atomweight submission grappling queen Danielle Kelly itching “to compete soon” after losing throne

Danielle Kelly doesn't want to sit idly by while watching someone sit on the throne she once ruled from. The former ONE atomweight submission grappling world champion has been itching to get back on the Circle since losing her strap to new holder Mayssa Bastos at ONE Fight Night 24 earlier this month.

Kelly suffered her first defeat in ONE Championship when she relinquished her gold to Bastos in Bangkok, and she's now hellbent on reclaiming the world title that was once on her shoulder.

Taking to Instagram, Danielle Kelly wrote:

"After this weekend, I'd like to compete soon 😬🥶🤷🏻‍♀️ @onechampionship @tong.fight.one"

Kelly remains one of the brightest women's submission grappling stars and she was in attendance during the Craig Jones Invitational in Las Vegas over the past weekend.

Although she didn't compete in the tournament, she spent much of the weekend interacting with fans and other fighters in the competition. Nevertheless, Kelly immediately returned to the gym and was determined to get back on winning form.

The American star was on fine form in her first four matches under ONE Championship, going an unbeaten 3-0-1 in the promotion.

After settling for a draw against Mei Yamaguchi in her promotional debut, Kelly racked up three straight wins over Mariia Molchanova, Ayaka Miura, and IBJJF world champion Jessa Khan.

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Danielle Kelly reflects on her loss to Mayssa Bastos at ONE Fight Night 24

If things go her way, then Danielle Kelly could forge a newfound rivalry with now-reigning ONE atomweight submission grappling world champion Mayssa Bastos.

In an Instagram post following her defeat, Kelly vowed to return a better and stronger grappler than ever before.

She added that a rematch should be on the line between her and Bastos for the coveted ONE world title.

Kelly wrote:

"Bad day at work but I proved once again I belong at the top. Years ago, I would’ve shut down. Today went head to head against the number one 115lb grappler who’s beaten everyone in the weight class. I may not agree but I’ll be ready for a rematch and will improve. Thank you everyone I’m gonna enjoy the rest of my summer and get back to work."