"I know I could win" - Jonathan Haggerty recalls his massive upset against idol Nong-O
Muay Thai superstar Jonathan Haggerty credits self-confidence as the reason behind his upset victory over his idol Nong-O Hama.
The bantamweight Muay Thai world champion walks with the conviction that if you don't believe in yourself as a fighter, it's almost impossible to achieve your dreams.
Although many doubted Haggerty's ability to defeat world-renowned Muay Thai superstar Nong-O Hama, the UK striker didn't feel an ounce of skepticism to suggest the opposite. He knew what he was all about and what he could bring to the table.
Recalling why he accepted the Nong-O Hama fight even though the odds were stacked against him, 'The General' said on Retrospect:
"I used to watch him as a young kid, probably the best fighter in the world at that time. Accepting that fight, I was confident that I could beat him. I don't go into any fight not confident I could win. Every fight that I go in, I know I could win. So we went ahead and took the fight."
On April 22, 2023, Jonathan Haggerty drowned the energy of the Thai crowd with a thunderous stoppage-finish against their hero via knockout in the first round. Since becoming the new bantamweight Muay Thai king, Haggerty hasn't put the brakes on shocking the world with epic upsets.
He intends to do so again when he defends his world title against fellow world champion Superlek Kiatmoo9 at ONE 168 in Denver.
Tickets for ONE 168: Denver are available via Ticketmaster.
"I am getting goosebumps" - Fight fans anticipate non-stop action from ONE world champions Jonathan Haggerty and Superlek in Denver
Fight fans in the US are stoked to watch Jonathan Haggerty defend his crown against Superlek this September in Denver.
Not many moments like these are seen in North America, much less Muay Thai fights of this caliber. So the fans are desperately getting their seats booked online via Ticketmaster while they're still available.
Those that bought their tickets early, are giddy with excitement to see the two world champions collide before them.
After watching their heated face-off take place in Thailand, check out the fan reactions on Instagram below:
