"When it's time to fight MMA, it's time" - Pure striker Jonathan Haggerty says he's always working on a potential debut to MMA
Jonathan Haggerty has already attained gold in Muay Thai and kickboxing under the ONE Championship banner. Now, he's waiting for the chance to try himself out in the one sport that started it all: MMA.
The ONE bantamweight kickboxing world champion has scaled to new heights in both striking disciplines on offer on the global stage.
Having reached the very pinnacle of the mountain, the Englishman opened up on the Winners Talking Podcast on why he'd be keen to go full circle and explore the sport under the bright lights of the organization.
Jonathan Haggerty shared:
"100 percent [I'm ready for MMA]. I grew up in an MMA gym, my dad was a MMA fighter. No one really knows. I keep it quiet. But when it's time to fight MMA, it's time."
The Knowlesy Academy and Team Underground martial artist also took the chance to remind the host of the perfect opponent he has in mind as and when he debuts in the all-encompassing sport — Brazilian knockout machine and bantamweight MMA king Fabricio Andrade.
Haggerty added:
"Recently, the MMA champion in the division called me out at ONE Championship. The one I beat for the kickboxing belt. I do fancy my chances there, but I feel I do need a few warmups in MMA. But yeah, that's definitely an option."
Watch his full appearance on the Winners Talking Podcast here:
Jonathan Haggerty should come out guns blazing in 2025
After enjoying a perfect 2023 campaign, where he secured two-sport world championship status, Jonathan Haggerty had a run of mixed results this year.
The 27-year-old knocked out Felipe Lobo at ONE Fight Night 19 to defend his gold, only to have the tables turned when he met Superlek Kiatmoo9 at ONE 168: Denver this past September.
He was put to sleep by the Thai megastar's elbow inside a minute of their duel inside the Ball Arena.
However, knowing what he needs to do to catapult himself back into a positive run, fans can expect him to be back at his best come 2025.
Who would you like to see Jonathan Haggerty face next year? Let us know below!