“I’ve always thought Japan was really cool” - Danielle Kelly lists Japan as her dream fighting destination

American grappler Danielle Kelly is interested in competing all around the world, particularly in the nation of Japan. Grappling and Japan go hand in hand together. The ONE Championship competitor said in an interview that she is most interested in competing there.

Japan has a rich history when it comes to grappling. Sumo wrestling dates back over 700 years. The techniques taught in sumo would be learned and changed by a gentleman named Kano Jigoro. Kano is considered the founder of judo and jiu-jitsu. One of his students was Mitsuyo Maeda, who traveled to Brazil and taught the Gracie family jiu-jitsu.

Danielle Kelly earned her jiu-jitsu black belt from Karel Pravec. Pravec's black belt lineage goes to Renzo Gracie, Carlos Gracie Jr, Helio Gracie, Carlos Gracie, and finally, Mitsuyo Maeda.

Kelly, who made her promotional debut in ONE Championship earlier this year, described her competition wishes in an interview with The MMA Super-Fan. She explained:

"I would love to compete in Japan, that’s my No.1 dream. 'Cause I’m kind of like, a nerd, so to be in Japan, I feel like that would be my biggest dream and I’ve always, as a kid, I’ve always thought Japan was really cool, especially Tokyo, Japan. It would be really cool to grapple there."

See the full interview with Danielle Kelly below:

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Danielle Kelly is happy it's fall season

Autumn is officially the season in the United States. No one is happier for that than ONE Championship athlete Danielle Kelly, who is a massive fan of pumpkin spice lattes.

In an interview with ONE Championship, she explained:

"It would have to be pumpkin cream, cold brews, or pumpkin candles. I actually just got some. I was looking at pumpkin candles today. I like the seasonal pumpkin colors just like the trees and they change over time. The weather gets colder a little bit. Fall clothing, that's like my primary favorite and scary movies. So it's all pumpkin related.”

Kelly made an impressive promotional debut against an MMA and grappling veteran in Mei Yamaguchi earlier this year. While her match ended in a draw, the American star won the hearts of fans and a $50,000 bonus for her performance.

Kelly has been looking to get back in action, and should have some fight news coming soon.