March 29, 2024

Former ONE flyweight title contender Danny Kingad wants a second encounter with the most decorated mixed martial arts champion first before challenging the reigning champion.
The 25-year-old Kingad of the famed Team Lakay is referring to former 13-time Ultimate Fighting Champion Demetrius Johnson of the United States, whom he fought hard but was defeated via decision almost two years ago.
“I will definitely be back stronger. It has been close to two years since we last fought and a lot has already happened in our own careers,” he said. “I’m more than ready to take on DJ again,” Kingad added.
Currently ranked number two in the stacked flyweight division, Kingad has announced he wants another shot against the last man to beat.
The 34-year-old Johnson originally met Kingad in the ONE flyweight world grand prix championship final in October 2019.
During their fight, Kingad was aggressive from the start, but the American used his lightning-fast speed, freakish athleticism, and world-class grappling to earn a decision victory.
That earned Johnson the right to fight reigning ONE flyweight world champion Adriano Moraes.
Things have changed dramatically since then. Kingad rebounded with a commanding victory over Chinese standout Xie Wei in a three-round thriller while Moraes beat Johnson in April, handing the American his first-ever knockout loss in the process.
Johnson is still the top-ranked contender in the flyweight division, but Kingad wants an opportunity to avenge his loss and leapfrog his old rival for the top spot. – Harley F. Palangchao