Jackie Buntan, the inaugural ONE women’s strawweight kickboxing world champion, believes that a playful environment is conducive to learning. In a recent interview with ONE Championship, Buntan shared that she has made significant progress when not in the midst of fight preparations.
“After that big fight and with the holidays, it was kind of just a weight off [coach] Brian’s shoulders and weight off mine. I always say training can be fun again,” Buntan expressed. She continued by highlighting the difference in her approach to training during and between fights.
“In camp, it’s grueling, it’s tiring. But in between fights, when you’re not in camp, that’s when I find training and sparring to truly be fun again. That’s when I find myself the most creative,” she added.
While training camps are essential for growth, they often come with added pressure and restrictions. Focusing on a specific game plan and opponent can become repetitive and serious. Buntan finds that casual training sessions in the gym allow her to explore the nuances of striking arts freely, leading to her well-rounded skill set and entertaining fighting style.
Following her victory over Anissa Meksen to claim the world championship title, Buntan’s inner fire intensified. With the recognition of being the best in the world, she acknowledged the target on her back and the motivation it brings.
“It’s more so a realization like, ‘OK, you are number one in the world now, there’s a target on my back.’ I know everyone wants the belt. It makes it exciting, and that makes me more motivated,” Buntan shared.
At just 27 years old, Buntan has already established herself as a formidable force in the world of kickboxing. Her passion for the sport and drive to continue improving make her a captivating athlete to watch.
In conclusion, Jackie Buntan’s approach to training and competition highlights the importance of balance between serious preparation and enjoying the process. By finding moments of creativity and fun in her training routine, she has been able to elevate her skills and achieve remarkable success in her career. As she continues to defend her title and face new challenges, Buntan’s dedication and love for the sport serve as inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwide.
