‘Game’ Jonathan Haggerty knows reclaiming Muay Thai gold will be as tough as it gets: “It’s a long road”

Former ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world champion Jonathan Haggerty admits that recliaming the gold will be difficult but expressed his readiness in taking on the challenge.

'The General' lost the championship belt after being knocked out in just 49 seconds by Thai superstar Superlek Kiatmoo9 in their marquee title clash at ONE 168: Denver on Sept. 6. It effectively ended his reign as bantamweight Muay Thai king after just one successful title defense.

In an interview with the Winners Talking Podcast, which was uploaded on Nov. 17, Haggerty opened up about trying to making another go at the world title he lost, saying that he was down for it but it would not be easy considering the current landscape in the division.

Jonathan Haggerty shared:

"I'm definitely game to take that Muay Thai belt back. But I'll be honest, it's a long road. A tough road. But I'm ready for it."

Watch the interview below:

Haggerty became ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world champion in April last year after knocking out in the first round longtime divisional king Nong-O Hama. He successfully defended the belt in his first title defense back in February with a TKO win over Brazilian challenger Felipe Lobo.

In his attempt to reclaim the belt, Haggerty, who is the bantamweight kickboxing world champion, will follow closely Superlek's first defense of the Muay Thai gold in January against challenger Nico Carrillo of Scotland.

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Jonathan Haggerty says lack of patience cost him the bantamweight Muay Thai gold

Jonathan Haggerty rued that his lack of patience deprived him of the opportunity to better defend the ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world title against Superlek Kiatmoo9 in their showdown back in September at ONE 168: Denver.

In an interview with the Sky Sports MMA Club podcast, 'The General' reflected on his 49-second KO loss to 'The Kicking Machine,' sharing that with better judgment, he could have given a more potent showing if not retained the world title.

Haggerty said:

"We had a great game plan -- just chop him down. We knew he liked to attack, counterattack,, and just start with respect for his elbows, leg kicks. I think I was just a little bit too eager."

While disappointed over the loss, Haggerty shared that he is now moving on from it armed with the lessons it entailed.