Smilla Sundell is just 17 year old, but the Swede has already gathered loads of experience as a professional Muay Thai fighter. Now, she’s just moments away from a world title fight in ONE Championship.
On Friday, ”The Storm” will be taking on American phenom Jackie Buntan in the co-main event of ONE 156 with the promotions inaugural women’s strawweight Muay Thai world title on the line.
It’s a tough test to say the least. But for Smilla Sundell, fighting against the odds is nothing out of the ordinary.
”It feels awesome to be fighting for the world title in ONE Championship. It’s really a dream come true for me and it just feels amazing to get this opportunity,” Smilla Sundell tells Frontkick ahead of ONE 156.
Smilla Sundell: ”This sport means everything to me”
Despite her young age, Smilla Sundell is already ranked at No. 1 in the world according to both WBC and WBO’s Muay Thai rankings for the 56,7 kg weigh class. She currently lives in Thailand, trains at the famous Fairtex Training Center and has won 33 of her 39 bouts thus far – including 22 by knockout or referee stoppage.
In her most recent bout, the Swede made her ONE debut against Australia’s Diandra Martin and won by third-round TKO.
”This sport means everything to me. To get a win here and become the ONE world champion would be so cool. I think this could lead to some big things for me,” she says.
Predicts third-round stoppage: ”I’ll knock her out”
Jackie Buntan is a highly-touted prospect herself, currently ranked at No. 2 at 53,5 kg according to WBO’s world Muay Thai rankings. While Smilla Sundell isn’t underestimating her opponent, she feels confident enough to predict a win by finish.
And she even pinpoints the round.
”I have looked her up, watched her fights and I know that she’s strong and fast. But I have a game plan based on what I’ve seen, and I believe I’m going to win by third-round stoppage. I’ll knock her out,” Smilla Sundell predicts.
Besides the intriguing co-main event, ONE 156 is headlined by a lightweight title fight in kickboxing between the reigning champion Regian Eersel and the challenger Arian Sadikovic. Furthermore, the card also features the return of Liam Harrison.
For the full fight card and broadcast information, check out our ONE 156 guide right here.
Related: Smilla Sundell interviewed by Frontkick at Allstars Training Center in Sweden