Jonathan Haggerty plans to defend kickboxing belt next, open to jump to MMA if given the chance: “I’m ready”

Two-sport ONE world champion Jonathan Haggerty talked about his future post-ONE 168: Denver.

In November 2023, Haggerty became a two-sport world champion by knocking out Fabricio Andrade for the ONE bantamweight kickboxing world title.

Later this week, the UK superstar returns to the bantamweight Muay Thai division to defend his throne against Superlek in the ONE 168: Denver main event.

There have been questions about whether Haggerty will keep both bantamweight divisions active.

During an interview with the South China Morning Post, 'The General' had this to say about wanting to defend his kickboxing throne next and potentially fight in MMA for the first time:

"I'm ready. I mean, I want to defend my kickboxing belt. I feel like I don't want to leave the division on hold. I've defended my Muay Thai belt. So I don't really want to leave my kickboxing division on hold."

Haggerty followed up by saying:

"So defending the kickboxing belt will be great for me. Also, MMA, like I said, if they send me the contract, then I'd be happy to sign it for sure."

In May, Wei Rui made his highly-anticipated promotional debut against former ONE bantamweight kickboxing world champion Hiroki Akimoto.

Wei showcased his world-class striking skills and emerged victorious by unanimous decision, making him the perfect opponent for Jonathan Haggerty's next title defense.

Check out Jonathan Haggerty's entire interview with the South China Morning Post below:

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Jonathan Haggerty isn't overlooking Superlek at ONE 168

Before worrying about what's next, Jonathan Haggerty has arguably the toughest challenge of his fighting career waiting at ONE 168: Denver.

The 27-year-old has been matched up for a super-fight against flyweight kickboxing king Superlek Kiatmoo9.

Superlek is coming off a legendary three-fight run - Rodtang (Muay Thai), Takeru Segawa (kickboxing), and Kongthoranee (Muay Thai). 'The Kicking Machine' also holds promotional records of 10-0 in Muay Thai and 4-1 in kickboxing.

Haggerty and Superlek can't overlook each other despite their respective success for many reasons. Therefore, fans should expect a potential Fight of the Year contender when they headline ONE 168 inside the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado.

Tickets for the stacked ONE 168: Denver event can be found on Ticketmaster.