ONE Championship's Angela Lee involved in car accident; upcoming title defense off

ONE Championship atomweight titleholder Angela Lee was involved in a car accident Monday.

ONE Championship CEO Chatri Sityodtong broke the news in a Facebook post that detailed Lee’s car flipped over five or six times, according to police in Oahu, Hawaii:

“ONE Atomweight World Champion Angela Lee got into a terrible car accident yesterday with her car flipping over 5-6x according to the police. She was driving to her morning training at the gym when she fell asleep. Miraculously, she survived with only a concussion, some minor burns, and a banged up body. If she was not wearing a seatbelt, it would have most certainly been a different story. I saw photos of the damaged car, and it was a complete wreck. Angela will not be competing on November 24. We are all blessed and relieved that Angela will make a full recovery. It is a reminder for all of us that life is so fragile and that we must treasure our loved ones every day. Please join me in sending love, prayers, and positive energy to Angela and her family.”

Rob DeMello of KHON shared a photo of Lee’s vehicle on Twitter that shows extensive damage to the front passenger’s side.

Lee’s father, Ken Lee, said “it’s truly a miracle that she survived” in a statement provided to KHON:

“My daughter was in a very serious accident yesterday. It is truly a miracle that she survived. We are so blessed that God laid his hand of protection over her.

“Angela’s car hit a guardrail on the highway. The axle snapped and the car flipped 5-6 times over 100 yards and landed on the opposite side of the highway, according to the police.

“Our family would like to thank everyone for your sincere thoughts and prayers. Angela is now at home recovering and will be okay.”

The 21-year-old Lee (8-0) was scheduled to rematch Mei Yamaguchi (16-10-1) at “ONE Championship 65: Immortal Pursuit” on Nov. 24 in Singapore. As a result of her car accident, Lee, who was looking for her third straight title defense, has been pulled from the bout.

It’s not known if officials are seeking a possible replacement opponent for Yamaguchi.

The card also features the retirement fight of welterweight champion Ben Askren, which figures to be elevated to the main event. Askren defends his belt against Andrew Leone.

For more on ONE Championship 65, visit the MMA Rumors section of the site.