MMA legend Rich Franklin reveals Demetrious Johnson will "have a special announcement" at ONE 168

The excitement for ONE 168: Denver on Friday, September 6, inside the Ball Arena, has reached an all-new high after ONE Championship Vice President Rich Franklin revealed that ONE flyweight MMA world champion Demetrious Johnson will be in attendance at the marquee event.

During the ONE 168: Denver pre-fight press conference, Franklin shared:

"I will just say that we have a special announcement coming from ONE flyweight MMA world champion Demetrious Johnson, who will be in attendance at the show, Friday."

Franklin's announcement comes at a most opportune time as fans have been eager to see 'Mighty Mouse' back inside the ONE circle at some capacity.

The all-time MMA great last competed at ONE Fight Night 10, where he successfully defended the ONE flyweight MMA world championship against Brazilian rival Adriano Moraes in their trilogy bout in Denver.

Despite not competing in MMA for over a year, Johnson has stayed active by competing in Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) tournaments. This includes winning a gold and silver medal this past March at the 2024 IBJJF Pan Championship.

Watch Johnson make his announcement at ONE 168: Denver on Friday, September 6, inside the Ball Arena.

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Demetrious Johnson gives advice to fighters in the closing stages of their careers

At 38 years old, Demetrious Johnson is particularly aware that a pro athlete's career is not forever, and they should always be ready for whatever happens next.

During his podcast interview with former ONE women's atomweight MMA world champion Angela Lee on MightyCast, Johnson said:

"Yeah, so don't get stuck on fighting. Learn how to build your brand. Learn how to do XYZ. Learn how to, you know, be ready for that next step in life."

Watch the full episode below: