“I’m gonna force myself not to fight” - Demetrious Johnson reveals retirement plan was his ‘New Year’s resolution’
Demetrious Johnson promised himself at the beginning of the calendar year that he would retire from mixed martial arts.
On September 6, ONE 168: Denver exceeded expectations with several unforgettable moments. The North American-based event featured quick finishes, entertaining fights, ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong receiving his black belt from Renzo Gracie, and two legends retiring.
Liam Harrison retired following his knockout loss against Seksan. Meanwhile, ONE flyweight MMA world champion and all-time great Demetrious Johnson officially announced he won't be fighting again in a special ceremony inside the cage.
During the ONE 168 post-even press conference, Johnson had this to say about "forcing himself not to fight" with his New Year's resolution:
"So, I made it upon myself, my New Year’s resolution this year was like I’m gonna force myself not to fight. Like I need to start using my brain, my intellect, my charisma, my creativity to start making money and building my brand."
Demetrious Johnson's contributions to the growth of ONE Championship made him an unforgettable promotional figure. Following his retirement announcement, Chatri Sityodtong handed 'Mighty Mouse' a trophy and revealed he would be the first person inducted into the promotion's Hall of Fame.
North American and Canadian viewers with an active Amazon Prime Video subscription can watch the replay of ONE 168: Denver for free.
Watch Johnson, Harrison, and Sityodtong during the first segment of the ONE 168 post-event press conference below:
What's next for the ONE flyweight MMA division following Demetrious Johnson's retirement?
Demetrious Johnson's retirement has provided an opportunity for two ONE flyweight MMA fighters to fight for the vacant world title. Firstly, number one-ranked Adriano Moraes is expected to be involved, as he was the last champion before Johnson defeated him in back-to-back fights.
The most likely second option would be number two-ranked Yuya Wakamatsu. The Japanese-born flyweight is coming off a unanimous decision win against number three-ranked Danny Kingad. Wakamatsu also has a history with Moraes.
In March 2022, Moraes defeated Wakamtsu by third-round submission at ONE X. Therefore, Chatri Sityodtong and the matchmakers could decide to book the top contenders for a rematch to determine the new flyweight MMA king.