NE Flyweight World Champion Adriano Moraes faces a tough challenge ahead of him in his upcoming bout, but it's nothing he hasn't seen before.
The Brazilian superstar will defend his title once more against MMA icon Demetrious Johnson at ONE Fight Night 1: Moraes vs. Johnson II on Aug. 27 at the Singapore Indoor Stadium.
Mikinho, as the Brazilian is known, is one of the most decorated flyweights on the ONE roster, holding the world title a staggering three times and defending it on four different occasions. But it was his defense against Johnson last April that stands as arguably his most significant.
Moraes shocked the world when he knocked “Mighty Mouse” out with a knee to the head at ONE on TNT I, doing what most thought was impossible. The finish stands as the only knockout loss of Johnson’s illustrious career.
The World Champion is understandably feeling the pressure to perform ahead of the much-anticipated rematch, but it’s mostly centered around him wanting to win in a different fashion.
“Demetrious Johnson is a very smart guy, very tough, and I know he’s coming in very hungry for this rematch. I’m training a lot. I want to show my evolution as an athlete, so I believe I can get a submission in the fourth round,” he said.
Read also: 5 elite skills that make Demetrious Johnson the MMA GOAT
The two flyweight superstars will headline the first ever ONE card to air on United States prime time as part of the promoter’s deal with streaming giant Prime Video. And the opportunity is not lost on Moraes.
The American Top Team standout is enthused that ONE has taken a step into the North American market, and he’s incredibly pleased to be topping the bill on the historic card.
“I believe this partnership between ONE and Prime Video will be fantastic for MMA fans and everyone who loves martial arts. And for me, it will be an honor to [compete in] the main event on the first Prime Video broadcast. I am very grateful once again,” Moraes said.
In the meantime, download the ONE Super App to catch all the action at ONE 160: Ok vs. Lee II on Friday, Aug. 26, at the Singapore Indoor Stadium.
This article was published in collaboration with ONE Championship.
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