Allycia Hellen Rodrigues successfully defended the ONE Atomweight Muay Thai World Title against Cristina Morales at ONE Fight Night 20 this past weekend with a tactical performance that put her back in the win column and cemented her position in the stacked division.
The talented Brazilian may be the queen of atomweight Muay Thai in ONE, but she still has a growth mindset and sees opportunities to grow as a striker.
“I have to believe in myself and trust myself. So, I’m very happy. Of course, it’s very gratifying to be where I’m at. I don’t think I’m the best, but surely one of the best. I’m going to continue doing my best to keep improving and giving it my all during fights,” Rodrigues said in her post-fight interview.
A champion’s reign is constantly at risk. And the more a belt is defended, the hungrier potential contenders get.
Rodrigues knows this, and she expects two Thai superstars to challenge her in the near future.
“I’m expecting to fight against Phetjeeja or Stamp Fairtex if she comes back to Muay Thai,” she stated.
Muay Thai isn’t the only thing on the 25-year-old’s mind, though. Having secured her position in the “art of eight limbs,” she has started to think about taking advantage of the variety of sports on offer in ONE Championship.
One discipline, in particular, is in her sights, and she wants to dive right into the deep end against the atomweight titleholder.
“I’m anxious to make my MMA debut. I think it’ll be a great opportunity to make a run in MMA,” Rodrigues offered.
“I’d like Stamp Fairtex in MMA.”
Time will tell what comes next for Rodrigues. Title tilts with both Phetjeeja and Stamp would offer incredible opportunities and challenges, and the idea of her transitioning into MMA also brings excitement to the table.
Regardless of what comes next, she continues to prove herself to be at the top of her game with incredible skill and technical mastery. Any challenger will have their hands full with the Brazilian when they come to challenge the throne.