Decisive Challenges: Diachkova Faces Hemetsberger for a Muay Thai Title

On October 30, 2025, Natalia Diachkova steps into the ring with one clear goal: to claim the ONE Muay Thai strawweight title. At 32, the Russian, boasting an impressive 32-win kickboxing record—including six wins in seven fights under the ONE Championship banner—is determined to make history. Her journey, marked by four consecutive victories at the ONE Friday Fights, earned her a main roster contract and her first shot at the belt in 2025.

Standing in her way is Stella Hemetsberger, the undefeated Austrian in five ONE Championship fights, a technical powerhouse in her own right. With a 10-1 strike ratio and titles in both Muay Thai and kickboxing, she has dominated the division for two years. Yet Diachkova dismisses her legitimacy with a wave of the hand. According to her, Hemetsberger’s wins over Jackie Buntan rely more on defensive strategies than true dominance. A view shared by several Thai and Russian coaches, who argue that the Austrian has mostly capitalized on her opponents’ mistakes.

A Rivalry Beyond Sport

This fight is more than just a clash of technique or records. It embodies a battle of styles and philosophies. Diachkova, a practitioner of aggressive, spectacular Muay Thai, accuses Hemetsberger of playing it safe. “She wins because her opponents make mistakes, not because she dominates,” she declared in a recent interview. A criticism that echoes in the background, where some observers question the Austrian’s ability to withstand constant pressure.

Still, Hemetsberger isn’t the type to be intimidated. With a rock-solid defense and surgical precision, she has established herself as a fan favorite. Her last fight, a unanimous decision victory over a top-5 ranked opponent, confirmed her status as a serious threat. “I won’t change my fighting style. I know what I’m worth,” she responded to Diachkova’s provocations.