Adrian Lee Returns At ONE 168: Denver Versus Nicholas Cornejo

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Adrian "The Phenom" Lee set for quick turnaround just one month after his professional MMA debut. But he's looking to capitalize on the momentum, having already booked a return to ONE Championship on the promotion's biggest card of the year.

The 18-year-old meets Nicholas "The Steel City Kid" Cornejo in lightweight MMA action at ONE 168: Denver in Colorado's Ball Arena on Friday, 7 September, live in U.S. primetime.

Adrian Lee is following in the footsteps of his brother, two-weight ONE World Champion Christian Lee, and his sister, former atomweight MMA queen Angela Lee. So it's safe to say the youngster has an outstanding lineage in ONE.

That said, he earned his way into the world's largest martial arts organization off his own back. The teenage star has attained multiple pankration championships and a Hawaii High School State Wrestling Title. On top of that, Lee pocketed a litany of wins in the amateur ranks.

There was plenty of jubilation around his promotional debut this past June at ONE 167. But Lee didn't fluster under the spotlight. He submitted Italian star Antonio Mammarella in the second round via submission.

Lee will look to raise the stock he created in his debut. But Cornejo will see ONE 168: Denver as an opportunity to show that he isn't there just to make up the numbers.

"The Steel City Kid" will enter the battle in the comfort of his hometown. Cornejo brings forth a strong wrestling repertoire that he can blend seamlessly with a high volume of strikes.

ONE 168 will be a huge step up for Cornejo nonetheless. But he feels he's ready for whatever comes, and a victory over Lee would be a triumphant way to kick off his ONE tenure.

On a stacked card such as 7 September's, stars will be made and lives will be changed. Cornejo will look to make the most of it. But for Lee, victory over his foe would keep him in good stead as he makes his way up the lightweight ranks.