“I really want to get that world title” - Danny Kingad has gold on his mind ahead of Adriano Moraes rematch

ONE flyweight MMA contender Danny Kingad believes now more than ever he has to make that hard push for the world title. He looks to make things happen in his upcoming rematch against former divisional king Adriano Moraes.

'The King' will go up against 'Mikinho' at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug on Nov. 8. It is part of the marquee event happening at the Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, and airing live and for free to North American fans with an active Amazon Prime Video subscription.

As per Kingad, he has grown more determined to finally go over the hump and take his place in ONE Championship's roster of champions after hitting road blocks in his world title pursuit.

The Lions Nation MMA representative said (via Manila Standard):

"There's no frustration, but I'm being more diligent now in reviewing how my fellow contenders are fighting and studying their tapes more. Instead of feeling frustrated, it motivates me knowing that I have to get through the hump to get to the world title. I really want to get that world title."

Danny Kingad fought for the ONE flyweight world grand prix title back in 2019 against American legend Demetrious Johnson in the final, losing via unanimous decision. He, however, remained a steady force in the flyweight division despite the defeat.

The Filipino fighter faced off with Moraes for the first time in November 2017, losing by way submission in the opening round.

Incidentally, the ONE flyweight MMA world title is currently vacant following the retirement of Johnson last month, making the Moraes-Kingad clash all the more significant as a world title shot could be next for the winner.

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Danny Kingad putting extra work in wrestling ahead of rematch with Adriano Moraes

Danny Kingad knows that to beat Adriano Moraes in their rematch at ONE 169: Malykhin vs Reug Reug next month his wrestling has to be on par with that of the Brazilian star. It is something he is putting extra work in as part of his preparation.

He shared this in a recent interview with The MMA Superfan, highlighting how he wants to be at his explosive best when it comes to wrestling in his redo with 'Mikinho,' saying:

"As of now, I'm focused in repeating multiple drills, partner plays, those are the things that I'm doing to bring back my wrestling prowess. I'm working on my explosiveness as well because I know it will help my wrestling."

Watch the interview below:

Danny Kingad comes into ONE 169 off a loss to Japanese Yuya Wakamatsu back in January by decision. Moraes, meanwhile, was last in action in May 2023 in the United States, losing to the now-retired Demetrious Johnson in their trilogy title fight.