Jonathan Haggerty says decision to acclimatize to Denver climate early has been a wise decision: “It’s helped”
Jonathan Haggerty is taking no chances when it comes to fighting 5,280 feet above sea level.
On Friday, September 6, 'The General' will head to The Mile High City — Denver, Colorado — for one of the most anticipated Muay Thai fights in ONE Championship history. On that night, the two-sport king will put his ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world championship on the line against 'The Kicking Machine' Superlek Kiatmoo9.
A month before their highly anticipated clash at ONE 168: Denver, Jonathan Haggerty revealed that he headed to The Centennial State a month early to properly acclimate to the high altitude:
“My team and I, we came to Denver four weeks before the week to get acclimated with the altitude," Haggerty told Sports Illustrated. "I’ve noticed a difference. It’s helped to get out here early. The fifty kicks I start out with in training, I felt that a lot differently. But we’re getting there.”
It will be Haggerty's second time defending the bantamweight Muay Thai title after his spectacular come-from-behind knockout of Felipe Lobo at ONE Fight Night 19 earlier this year.
Jonathan Haggerty faces his toughest test yet against Superlek at ONE 168: Denver
Jonathan Haggerty has already gone toe-to-toe with some of the biggest names in ONE Championship history, including Nong-O Hama, Rodtang Jitmuangnon, Sam-A Gaiyanhadao, and Fabricio Andrade. However, his scrap with 'The Kicking Machine' may very well be his toughest test yet.
In over five years with the promotion, Superlek has never lost a fight in the art of eight limbs — including a Fight of the Year winner against 'The Iron Man' last September.
In the time since, he's added big wins against Japanese kickboxing legend Takeru Segawa and Thai standout Kongthoranee Sor Sommai.
Already sitting as the ONE flyweight kickboxing world champion, will Superlek claim his second belt and become the promotion's latest two-sport superstar, or will Haggerty retain his title and add another highlight to his already impressive resume?
Follow this link for tickets for ONE 168: Denver on September 6 at Ball Arena.