Jonathan Haggerty is eager for a rematch as he prepares to face kickboxing icon Superlek Kiatmoo9 in Denver. This highly anticipated fight will be available on live broadcast early Saturday morning.
Haggerty previously faced defeat against Superlek in 2018. However, he has since risen to become the ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world champion. He is set to defend his title against Superlek, nicknamed ‘The Kicking Machine’, in the main event.
Both fighters have significantly improved since their first encounter. This upcoming battle is expected to be a decisive contest for the title of the top pound-for-pound striker globally.
Haggerty stated, “I believe Superlek is among the best pound-for-pound fighters, which is why our training has been so intense.”
He added, “We are both competing at the highest level, within the premier organization, and in our prime. May the best fighter emerge victorious.”
“He seems motivated and ready, which is exactly what I want. I want to face Superlek at his absolute best, ensuring no excuses when I defeat him,” Haggerty commented.
The London native further mentioned, “We are seeking revenge. However, our approach is not to overwhelm him immediately. We will be patient, adhering to a well-defined strategy. We will execute our game plan to the best of our ability. Once the fight intensifies, anything can happen.”
Haggerty thrives in intense fights, even against formidable opponents like Superlek.
“When the adrenaline kicks in and I get focused, I’m ready to go,” he explained. “I get into a zone, throwing and taking punches, but I just keep moving forward and attacking.”
“You cannot display any fear or hesitation, or any sign that you are afraid of being knocked out. Showing any weakness will be exploited,” he asserted.
Haggerty is known for delivering exciting performances. He has triumphed over elite Thai kickboxers and demonstrated resilience by recovering from a knockdown to defeat Felipe Lobo in his most recent fight.
“In the fight with Lobo, I could have stayed down, or I could get back up, risking a potential knockout. I chose to rise and push through. It proves the importance of fighting until the very end. As a fighter, you must do what you are trained to do,” Haggerty reflected.
Regarding Superlek’s mindset, Haggerty observed, “He [Superlek] says he doesn’t care if he gets knocked out. I’m not sure why he’s saying that. It suggests he is prepared for the possibility of being knocked out, perhaps even expecting it. That’s how it sounds to me.”
“Ultimately, it will be a thrilling fight, and we are both going to give it our all,” Haggerty concluded.
Should Haggerty win, numerous exciting prospects await him.
“Nico Carrillo [the top contender in the bantamweight Muay Thai rankings] definitely deserves a title shot, and I intend to face him,” Haggerty confirmed.
He also stated, “I don’t want to stall the kickboxing division. Having defended my Muay Thai title twice, I believe it’s time I defended my kickboxing title. It’s only fair to the division.”
“If Fabricio Andrade [ONE’s MMA bantamweight champion] wishes to compete, or anyone else from the MMA division, I am open to transitioning to MMA. It’s definitely a possibility.”
“It all hinges on the outcome of this next fight,” he summarized.
Expert Opinions
Liam Harrison (kickboxing legend) says:
“Superlek is a friend and former training partner. Haggerty is also British, and despite past disagreements, I wish no fighter harm. May the best man win, and I hope they have a fantastic fight.”
“Haggerty will have a size advantage over Superlek, being noticeably larger. Superlek can still comfortably make 135lbs and hasn’t had time to bulk up. Haggerty will have an advantage in size and strength, while Superlek likely has a speed advantage. I see it as a very balanced, 50-50 fight.”
“Superlek’s experience is considerable, allowing him to compete effectively across different weight classes.”
“Honestly, I’m uncertain. I might lean towards Superlek winning due to his experience. However, Haggerty’s size and the altitude could be significant factors in a five-round fight. I expect it to be a very close contest.”
Liam Nolan (lightweight contender) says:
“I’m backing Jon, not just because he’s a teammate and British. My reasons include his weight advantage, fighting a weight class above. Four-ounce gloves also favor Jon more. Plus, his preparation in Denver, acclimatizing to the altitude, might give him an edge over Superlek, who arrives just fight week. This might not be the smartest move from Superlek.”
“However, it’s tough to say definitively because Superlek has been nearly flawless, defeating major fighters like Takeru and Rodtang, who are big hitters, as is Jon.”
“But I’m predicting an early win for Jon.”
Jake Peacock (rising star) says:
“I’m English, and I support Jonathan Haggerty, but Superlek is my favorite fighter. I aspire to fight Superlek one day; he’s exceptionally skilled and experienced, with a wide range of techniques. He can dictate the fight’s direction.”
“Conversely, Jonathan Haggerty is young, motivated, and in his prime. I admire his skills and his coach’s strategic planning. They are very intelligent and capable of devising a plan to defeat Superlek. However, I’m not confidently predicting a Haggerty win, it’s uncertain. I’m staying neutral and looking forward to watching!”
Catch Haggerty vs Superlek live early Saturday morning. Check your local listings for broadcast details.
Marcus Bellamy