"People use it as therapy" - Danielle Kelly on why jiu-jitsu means so much more than just a martial art

Those who practice 'The Gentle Art' know how therapeutic it can be for the mind, body and spirit. Before she became one of the finest Brazilian jiu-jitsu athletes in the world, Danielle Kelly was just a little girl who practiced the martial art as a way to defend herself against bullies.

Not long after, the sport became her respite against the cruel realities of her rough upbringing.

Emotions she couldn't verbalize were expressed on the mats, as she honed her skills day in and day out.

Now that BJJ has grown into the mainstream in recent years, Kelly is grateful that young kids finally have an outlet to express themselves in a healthy way.

The reigning atomweight submission grappling world champion shared in an appearance on Few Will Hunt on YouTube:

"I think anyone who signs up in jiu-jitsu, everyone needs that kind of burst of energy. People use it as therapy. Well, it's like my job now, but people, especially kids, it keeps them active. Kids aren't really good at talking about their feelings. Like me, I just used it on the mats."

Danielle Kelly is truly a role model when it comes to overcoming adversity through jiu-jitsu.

Watch the full interview:

Danielle Kelly looks to cement her claim as one of the best female grapplers against Mayssa Bastos

Following her career-defining and title-clinching victory against former tormentor Jessa Khan last year, Kelly's first championship defense is certainly no walk in the park.

The Silver Fox BJJ standout will tussle with one of the most decorated female grapplers in the world today Mayssa Bastos in the penultimate match of ONE Fight Night 24: Brooks vs Balart on Prime Video.

This high-stakes grappling war will emanate from Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on August 2, live in US Primetime.

ONE Fight Night 24 is free for Prime Video subscribers in the United States and Canada.