Haggerty to start MMA Training, eyes super-fight with Demetrious Johnson

Flyweight stars are lining up to face Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson following his victory over Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon at ONE X.

One of them, in particular, is British Muay Thai star and number one flyweight contender Jonathan “The General” Haggerty. 

The Englishman was once a ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion but dropped his crown to Rodtang. Moreover, he was unable to recover it in their rematch. However, Haggerty has won three bouts since then, most recently against Mongkolpetch Petchyindee this past February, and now he wants to face the MMA GOAT. 

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Haggerty congratulated “Mighty Mouse” via social media before hinting interest in competing against the 12-time MMA world champion.  

“Congratulations on the win, champ. ONE Championship, let’s get this show on the road,” the Brit wrote. 

Ahead of the 10-year anniversary event, fans were undecided on whether Rodtang’s spectacular Muay Thai skills would overwhelm Johnson in their bout that was to alternate between Muay Thai and MMA rule sets. And, from the opening bell, it was clear that “Mighty Mouse” was going to hold his own against the Thai superstar. 

“The Iron Man” caused problems for Johnson as he landed blow after blow in the first round, but the MMA veteran survived the opening three minutes and went on to deliver his own punishment in round two. 

Johnson brought the fight to Rodtang against the Circle Wall once the rules switched to mixed martial arts in round two. He worked his way into a takedown and promptly took his opponent’s back. Rodtang struggled to change positions from there, and “Mighty Mouse” capitalized on this by securing a tight choke. The Thai stubbornly refused to tap, meaning referee Olivier Coste had to intervene and end the match. 

Haggerty took inspiration from the special rules contest, and he quickly made his intentions clear after the fight ended. 

“As soon as I get back in the gym, I’m jumping straight on MMA training and I’m waiting for that phone call. I think I would be a tougher fight for Demetrious Johnson,” Haggerty said.  

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Time will tell if that call comes. But if it does, “The General” will be ready.

Keep an eye out for ONE: RELOADED, which will take place at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on 22 April. 

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