"I showed that's why I'm here" - Adriano Moraes thrilled to turn back the clock in trademark fashion at ONE 169

Adriano Moraes came into ONE 169 to make a statement that would put him right back at the top of the flyweight division.

The former divisional king had been out of action for some time and in recent years, had been locked into an epic trilogy of fights with Demetrious Johnson.

His return this past weekend at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, marked the beginning of a new chapter for Moraes who was ready to make a fresh start.

In an attempt to get back into the win column, the top-ranked challenger drew an opponent that he had faced once before due to both men being veterans of the division.

Despite all the time that has passed since his first and second encounters with Danny Kingad, the outcome was nearly the same.

The Brazilian was able to wrap up a guillotine choke to get the tap in the second round, announcing once and for all that he was back at the top.

In a post-fight interview with the Bangkok Post, after he got his hand raised, Adriano Moraes reflected on the fight and the statement he wanted to make:

​

​

​

"Today I showed that and that's why I'm here, because I want to be the best."

Watch the full interview below:

---

Adriano Moraes has still got it

It was clear from his performance at ONE 169 that Adriano Moraes hasn't lost a step during his time away from competition.

The former flyweight world champion is still right at the top of this weight class and his performance against Kingad proved that.

He's one of the most well-rounded contenders in the division and has always been an excellent finisher when the opportunity presents itself.

With this win on his return, Moraes has guaranteed that he will play a part in the future plans for the division that will likely involve a vacant title fight now that Demetrious Johnson is retired.

​