“There's a massive market just for Muay Thai” - Demetrious Johnson says ‘The Art of Eight Limbs’ could soon blow up in the US

MMA legend Demetrious Johnson believes Muay Thai is ripe for an explosion in the United States.

In recent years, the art of eight limbs has seen a massive surge thanks to ONE Championship stars like 'The Iron Man' Rodtang Jitmuangnon, two-sport king Superlek Kiatmoo9, British fan favorite Jonathan Haggerty, and three-sport queen Stamp Fairtex who cut her teeth in Muay Thai before making the move to MMA.

Speaking with MMA Fighting, 'Mighty Mouse' thinks Muay Thai is a very appealing sport for fans in the U.S. — particularly for those who roll their eyes every time a fight hits the mat. He said:

"I think once we're in this period now where we're trying to figure out what is the best option for the fan base. There are people out there who just love Muay Thai."

He further added:

"There's a huge, massive market just for Muay Thai that a lot of American fans would love to see, because once it goes to the ground, people like, oh, stand him up. I don't want to see the grappling, they're not educated enough to understand the grappling."

Here's the full interview (Quotes from 33:20):

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ONE Championship delivers a couple of Muay Thai bangers at ONE 170 in Bangkok

Fans of Muay Thai won't want to miss ONE Championship's return to Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand on Friday, January 24 when the promotion showcases not one, but two massive title matches.

In the co-main event of the evening, Superlek will put his ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world championship up for grabs against Scottish knockout artist Nico Carrillo.

'King of the North' goes into his first title opportunity riding a four-fight win streak, all coming via knockout.

The evening's headliner will also witness a massive rematch as ONE featherweight Muay Thai titleholder Tawanchai PK Saenchai squares off with former kickboxing king Superbon.

Tawanchai previously bested Superbon at ONE Friday Fights 46. After a year, they'll run it back in The Land of Smiles.

Fans in the United States and Canada can watch ONE 170: Tawanchai vs. Superbon II, which will air live on Amazon Prime Video on Friday, January 24 in U.S. primetime.