Teshya Noelani Alo, a 28-year-old wrestler from Hawaii, has spoken out about the challenges she faced early in her career. As a girl competing in the boys’ division, she encountered hostility and unpleasantness off the wrestling mats. However, instead of letting these experiences deter her, Alo used them to develop her physical and mental toughness.
Alo recalled a particularly difficult encounter with a male competitor who verbally abused her after she beat him. She said, “He grabbed me, pulled me close, and said, ‘You suck, you can’t throw me.’ I was caught off guard, and I started crying.” Despite this, Alo persevered and eventually used the experience to fuel her success in Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Alo will make her promotional debut at ONE Fight Night 39 on January 24, where she will face Helena Crevar in a bantamweight submission grappling contest at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand. This will not be the first time the two athletes have met, as they previously competed against each other a few years ago, with Crevar emerging victorious via penalty.
Alo reflected on the loss, stating, “I feel like it’s way too long ago. We both should be completely different. I mean, two years is a long time. I had no idea how to do a heel hook or straight ankle lock at that time.” She believes that both she and Crevar have improved significantly since their last meeting and is looking forward to the rematch.
The upcoming contest will be available to stream live on Prime Video for subscribers in North America. Alo’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, particularly women in male-dominated sports, demonstrating the importance of perseverance and determination in overcoming adversity. With her unique blend of wrestling and judo experience, Alo is poised to make a significant impact in the world of martial arts.
