Austrian athlete Stella Hemetsberger is making headlines in the combat sports world with her impressive performances in ONE Championship, securing three consecutive wins on ONE Friday Fights. Now, she faces the most significant challenge of her career as she competes for the vacant ONE Women’s Strawweight Muay Thai World Title against seasoned kickboxer Jackie Buntan. This highly anticipated match will take place at ONE Fight Night 35, broadcasting live at U.S. primetime on September 5 from the iconic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok.
Key Facts About Stella Hemetsberger
#1 An Unexpected Start in Muay Thai
Hemetsberger’s journey in Muay Thai began somewhat serendipitously. Initially interested in boxing at the age of 13, she found herself in a Muay Thai gym instead. Reflecting on her early experiences, she stated:
“I started training Muay Thai when I was 13 years old, and I only had my first fight at 17. I started doing martial arts because I wanted to give boxing a try, but coincidentally, I found myself in a Muay Thai gym.”
This unplanned foray into Muay Thai quickly transformed her life, leading to a successful competitive career. Hemetsberger now boasts an 8-1 record, with her latest victory coming at ONE Friday Fights 104, where she secured a US$100,000 contract with her knockout performance against Vanessa Romanowski.
#2 Proven Championship Experience
Prior to her showdown at ONE Fight Night 35, Hemetsberger has already established her credentials in combat sports. She currently holds the WAKO K-1 Championship and clinched a gold medal in the women’s 60-kilogram division at the 2022 World Games in Birmingham, Alabama. This latest opportunity resonates deeply with her, as she explains:
“This opportunity means everything to me. It is a dream come true, and I’m getting as ready as possible to fight for the most prestigious title there is in our sport.”
#3 Academic Achievement in Sports Science
In addition to her athletic prowess, Hemetsberger is also academically accomplished. She graduated with a degree in sports science from the University of Salzburg in the previous year. Using her academic background, she collaborates with her coaching team at RS-Gym and Phuket Fight Club to optimize her training strategies. She stated:
“Being equipped with sports science is really helpful. It allows me to understand my body better in general, and having that knowledge allows me to get the best results out of training.”
#4 A Passion for Craftsmanship
Before stepping into the ring, Hemetsberger had a creative side that expressed itself through building and crafting. She fondly recalls spending time in her grandfather’s workshop during her childhood, a passion that continues to influence her life today.
“When I was young, one of my favorite things to do was to spend my time in my grandpa’s small ‘workshop’ in his backyard just building things there.”
#5 Love for the Outdoors
Beyond her training, Hemetsberger cherishes the natural beauty of her home country, Austria, as well as the relaxing beaches of Thailand. Whether skiing in the Alps during the winter or enjoying sunny days in Phuket, she prioritizes outdoor activities to balance her physically demanding career and recharge mentally. She articulates her affinity for nature:
“I love being outside in general. When I’m not focused on my matches, I spend a lot of time in the mountains skiing or hiking. I love spending time with family and friends in nature.”
