"There was no animosity there" - Jonathan Haggerty says Superlek was extremely gracious after dethroning him

Superlek Kiatmoo9 could have easily been caught in the moment and taunted Jonathan Haggerty after landing a fight-ending elbow to finish their match in just 49 seconds.

However, the ever-humble Thai superstar once again lived up to the martial artist's code of being gracious in victory or defeat and chose to celebrate his win in a dignified manner.

'The General' admitted being grateful to Superlek's humility, especially after the spicy words they exchanged in the lead-up to their ONE 168: Denver showdown last month at the Ball Arena.

The bantamweight kickboxing world shared during an appearance on Sky Sports MMA Club Podcast:

"Yeah, he’s a very respectful athlete, very respectful fighter. So I congratulated him and he spoke to me and my family as well, so there was no animosity there, we’re all good."

Superlek treated Jonathan Haggerty simply as his opponent and not his enemy.

Once the final bell rang and the verdict was announced, 'The Kicking Machine' didn't feel the need to gloat and thanked the Brit for the great fight.

This endearing trait certainly proves that Superlek is not just one of the finest strikers on the planet, but also a true role model for the younger generation.

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Jonathan Haggerty laments on missed opportunity against Superlek

ONE 168 was supposed to be Jonathan Haggerty's redemption arc against tormentor Superlek.

Instead, he succumbed to the now two-division and two-sport world champion after a split-second lapse in judgment and surrendered his belt in the process.

In the same interview, 'The General' said it could have easily been him delivering the killing blow had he been more careful:

"I think he threw one shot after I got one shot and it was a matter of who hits first and obviously, he hit. I was gutted. But it’s the fight game and inches."