Jonathan Haggerty is no stranger to adversity. After suffering a stunning first-round knockout loss to Superlek Kiatmoo9 that cost him his Muay Thai crown, The General is now laser-focused on proving he’s still the best striker on the planet. His chance for redemption comes at ONE 171: Qatar on Thursday, February 20, where he will defend his ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Championship against Wei Rui inside Lusail Sports Arena.
For Haggerty, this isn’t just another title defense—it’s a statement fight.
Calling His Shot in Qatar
Haggerty had his eyes on this event since March 2024, after witnessing the electric atmosphere at ONE 166 in Qatar. He made it clear to ONE Chairman Chatri Sityodtong that he wanted to be part of the next show in the country.
“I went out in March for ONE 166, and I told Mr. Chatri I’d love to be a part of the next show. Now it’s up to me to go in there and put the W in front of the L,” Haggerty said.
But standing in his way is Wei Rui, a world-class striker who defeated Hiroki Akimoto and has his own plans to claim kickboxing gold.
The Comeback Story: “We’re Going for a Demolition Job”
Haggerty’s loss to Superlek didn’t break him—it fueled his fire. Now, he’s hungrier than ever to prove he’s still the king of the division.
“I’m going from the pound-for-pound best in Superlek to another elite striker in Wei Rui, so I certainly rate him,” Haggerty admitted. “He beat Hiroki Akimoto, who’s tough competition. But we do think we can do a demolition job on him for sure.”
His confidence is through the roof, and he’s already picturing another highlight-reel finish.
“I feel confident that I can put on a spectacular performance. I want to go down the same route as I did against Andrade, so I’m thinking a second-round stoppage. I’m coming to show everyone why I’m still the best in the world.”
What’s Next for Haggerty?
Haggerty made history in 2023 by becoming a two-sport World Champion, and while there were talks of him transitioning to MMA, his focus is now firmly on reclaiming the Muay Thai belt after this kickboxing defense.
“I was at the point last year where I was ready to [try MMA],” Haggerty revealed. “But losing the Muay Thai belt, that’s my bread and butter, and that setback didn’t help. My main priority is to get the Muay Thai belt back.”
However, if the opportunity arises, he wouldn’t shy away from stepping inside the cage.
“If ONE wants to give me an MMA fight, I’m happy to take it. It excites me. But right now, I must defend the kickboxing belt.”
Will Haggerty Deliver on His Promise?
With the spotlight shining bright, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Will Jonathan Haggerty successfully defend his kickboxing crown and make good on his bold second-round stoppage prediction? Or will Wei Rui play spoiler and snatch the gold?
Find out LIVE at ONE 171: Qatar on Thursday, February 20, from Lusail Sports Arena!