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Former ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Jonathan “The General” Haggerty is entering his next bout full of confidence. The 24-year-old is excited to make another run at the world title, and feels he needs to make a statement in his next fight.

Haggerty returns to the Circle to face Mongkolpetch Petchyindee in a ONE Super Series flyweight Muay Thai bout at ONE: BAD BLOOD. The event broadcasts live from the Singapore Indoor Stadium on Friday, 11 February. 

The #2-ranked flyweight says his opponent is an easy one, and that he should have no problems taking care of business against the former Lumpinee Stadium champion.
 
“I’m going to be totally honest. I don’t want to shoot myself in the foot, but I think he’s an easy opponent. I just think that with his style, he isn’t going to be able to deal with what I’m going to bring,” Haggerty said.
 
“I think he’s a slow starter. He’s used to the [Bangkok] stadiums. He can’t change his strategy just for me because, if he does, he is not going to be used to it, and it’s not a very good idea.”
 
The English fighter also thinks his technique is much more crisp compared to his opponent’s, and that will mean the world of a difference when they lock horns.
 
“The way I go in there to fight, it’s just what I do and that’s how it comes off, like a showman. There’s no game plan to look flamboyant and all that sort of stuff, I just am,” Haggerty said.

“I’m going to be totally honest again. I don’t know if I’m being overconfident, but it’s not a bad thing. I think I’m going to knock him out in the first round. I don’t think he’s going to be able to handle the movement.”
 
But despite his overflowing confidence, Haggerty is wise enough not to look past Mongkolpetch’s strengths. Breaking down his opponent’s skill set, Haggerty identified the Thai warrior’s strengths and weaknesses.
 
“I’ve got to avoid his clinch, his low kick, and his right hand, and I think that’s all he’s really got. He’s got one shot. He doesn’t throw combos. He just throws one shot and hopes,” Haggerty said.
 
“I think he’s coming to ruin the fight. He’s not going to stand and fight, I think he’s got a strategy to hit and grab. He’s a clinch fighter, but he’s quite messy. I don’t think ONE Super Series really allow the clinch to go on too long. As long as he doesn’t get my lower back, then I should be fine, the ref will break it, and I’ll stay on the outside again.”
 
A victory over Mongkolpetch will certainly stamp a great case for Haggerty to challenge for the world title once more, or at least take on #1-ranked contender Superlek.
 
“The General” feels he’s in the perfect position to send shockwaves once again through the division.
 
“The maturity that I’ve gained is just unreal. And I just feel like I’m stronger, I’m faster, I’m fitter, I’m smarter, and I know how to play the game a bit more now. Instead of just going in for the knockout, I’ve got game plans. And I’ve got visions – visions to be at the top again,” Haggerty said.

Published : February 10, 2022

By : THE NATION