“He’s not done” - Adriano Moraes believes retired Demetrious Johnson will get the itch to compete in MMA again 

Adriano Moraes will always cherish his epic trilogy with one of the best to ever put on the four-ounce gloves, Demetrious Johnson. 'Mikinho' was among the millions who expressed their gratitude to 'Mighty Mouse', after the American legend announced his retirement at ONE 168: Denver last September.

A teary-eyed Johnson bid farewell during an emotional send-off, which also saw him vacating the flyweight MMA throne. 'DJ's last title defense came against Adriano Moraes at ONE Fight Night 10 last year, ending his rivalry with the Brazilian by winning two of their three meetings.

Had Moraes won that grudge match and taken the belt, he believes Johnson may have reconsidered his decision to retire.

The eight-time flyweight MMA world titleholder told Nick Atkin of the Bangkok Post during his ONE 169 post-event interview:

"I think if I had taken his belt, he would be back for a fourth match."

While Moraes is happy that 'DJ' went out on his terms, he believes the MMA GOAT candidate has a lot more left in him and could cut his retirement short. He added:

"Yeah, for sure. I think so. He’s not done."

Watch the full interview:

Adriano Moraes willing to rekindle rivalry with Demetrious Johnson

If Demetrious Johnson does decide to come back to MMA, his old foe will be thrilled to welcome him. 'Mikinho' told the Bangkok Post:

"DJ, I love you, man. I’m happy for your retirement. You deserve everything you have. But I’m here for you if you want a fourth dance."

Adriano Moraes certainly proved he is still one of the top 135-pound fighters in the world at ONE 169 last Nov. 8. The 35-year-old veteran weathered some early trouble from Danny Kingad and submitted the no.3 ranked flyweight contender with a suffocating guillotine.

The full replay of ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug is available on demand for Prime Video subscribers in the United States and Canada.