Stella Hemetsberger is set to defend her ONE Women's Strawweight Muay Thai World Title against Natalia Diachkova at ONE Fight Night 46 on August 14.
The 27-year-old Austrian fighter has refused to let her status as a two-sport World Champion change her identity, remaining humble and grounded despite her monumental achievement. Hemetsberger first captured the Muay Thai crown by defeating Jackie Buntan at ONE Fight Night 35, before dethroning her in a technical five-round battle to claim the ONE Women's Strawweight Kickboxing World Championship.
Hemetsberger's humility has not changed, even with the added fame and global attention that comes with being a World Champion. In an interview, she stated, "Honestly, I don't think this victory changed [the outlook of my career]. Like, I'm still the same person. I'm still working hard to reach my goals."
Her approach to training has not shifted either, with Hemetsberger continuing to work hard to improve and reach her goals. "I think that experience of becoming a double champion gives me the motivation to always get better and become a better fighter," she said. "Each fight, I'm aiming to get better and better until I'm the best version of myself."
Hemetsberger's journey to becoming a two-sport World Champion has been nothing short of incredible. From discovering Muay Thai at the age of 13, to becoming a World Champion, she has come a long way. When asked what message she would give to her 13-year-old self, Hemetsberger replied, "If there is a message I would like to tell my 13-year-old self, who was just sort of getting started…I honestly think she wouldn’t even believe what I’m telling her right now. But I would just tell her to keep going, stay motivated, and just follow your goals."
The main event of ONE Fight Night 46 will be broadcast live in U.S. primetime from the world-famous Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand. Hemetsberger's title defense against Diachkova is expected to be a highly anticipated clash, with both fighters looking to make a statement in the ONE Women's Strawweight Muay Thai division.
Hemetsberger's humility and grounded approach to her career are a testament to her character and dedication to her craft. As she prepares to defend her title against Diachkova, it will be interesting to see how she performs under pressure. Will she be able to maintain her focus and composure in the face of a tough opponent, or will the pressure of being a World Champion get to her? The world will be watching to see how Hemetsberger fares in her title defense.
Source: Yahoo Sports