Demetrious Johnson Could ‘Entertain’ a Bantamweight Contest Against John Lineker in a ‘Champion vs. Champion’ Bout but Has a Few Conditions

Demetrious Johnson will cross paths with Adriano Moraes for the second time for the ONE flyweight championship at ONE 161. Meanwhile, as ‘DJ‘ has not shied away from taking other challenges inside the ONE Circle, a future showdown with the bantamweight champion, John Lineker, could be his next step if the result goes his way on August 26 at the Singapore Indoor Stadium.

In an interview with MMA Fighting, ‘Mighty Mouse‘ talked about whether a matchup with ‘Hands of Stone‘ will interest him or not.

Demetrious Johnson said, “Yeah, absolutely. At the end of the day, that division is stacked. You’ve got Bibiano Fernandes; you’ve got Fabricio Andrade – that guy is, I think, he is the next in line for that belt. So, if I’m able to become a world champion, and beat Adriano Moraes and then they want to do a super fight – champion vs. champion, I have no problem trying to, you know, entertain that fight.”

However, the 35-year-old added, “I respect the sport so much that there’s guys in that division that are just killers that are waiting for their opportunity to get that.”

Read More – Demetrious Johnson Reveals Ideal Scenario for Rodtang Jitmuangnon-Like Special Rules Bout in the Future

Johnson mentioned Lineker will need to do some work in the division against formidable opponents like Fabricio Andrade & perhaps a rematch with Bibiano Fernandes, for him to consider a move up to challenge for the second title.

Demetrious Johnson will complete his MMA career at ONE Championship

The 12-time MMA world champion openly talked about his contract with ‘The Home of Martial Arts’ and put a light on when and where he would hang the gloves.

“I’ll retire at ONE Championship; I don’t see myself going anywhere else,” said Demetrious Johnson.

‘Mighty Mouse‘ offered, “I’m 35 years old; I don’t wanna fight when I’m 38-39. If I have to, I will, but I don’t want to.”

Johnson didn’t want to confirm that he’ll be retiring in three-four years’ time, but he sees it as an option.

The AMC Pankration standout currently has a massive challenge in front of him, i.e., Adriano Moraes, the first fighter to not see the judges’ scorecards while beating Demetrious Johnson inside an MMA contest. Thus, August 26 will be the utmost priority for the ONE Flyweight Grand Prix winner.

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What do you think of a contest between Demetrious Johnson and John Lineker? Share your views in the comments section.