“I Sort of Picked Him Apart”- Jonathan Haggerty Goes Honest About Fighting Rodtang for the First Time in ONE Championship

In 2019, Jonathan Haggerty, the two-sport ONE Bantamweight World Champion, claimed the ONE flyweight Muay Thai world title by defeating Sam-A Gaiyanghadao at ONE: FOR HONOR. His victory marked a significant achievement, but his reign was cut short when he faced defeat against Rodtang Jitmuangnon a few months later.

As Haggerty prepares to confront Superlek Kiatmoo9 at ONE 168: Denver in the Ball Arena, Denver, “The General” revisited his past fight with Rodtang Jitmuangnon, shedding light on the circumstances of that memorable bout.

Jonathan Haggerty reflects on facing Rodtang for the first time

Arriving in the promotion with a point to prove, Jonathan Haggerty’s confidence soared after defeating Sam-A Gaiyanghadao. Believing himself capable of beating anyone, he called out the formidable Rodtang Jitmuangnon, whose skills and legendary skills strike fear into every fighter. He reflected on their first encounter.

Haggerty recalled on his YouTube channel, “This was a tough fight. We had a five-round battle. I remember the first two rounds; I sort of picked him apart. I went back to my corner and said to my trainer, “What’s the fuss all about?” Then he started upping the pace. It turned out to be a great fight.”

‘The General’ further remembered that he pressured Rodtang at one point in the third round, sensing he was behind on the scorecards. He also claimed to be the toughest fighter Rodtang Jitmuangnon had faced so far.

Reflecting on the fight and his rivalry with Rodtang, Haggerty emphasized that their relationship remains purely professional. Despite being defeated twice, he maintains a good relationship with Rodtang. He also claimed that they wished each other good luck before their fights.

Haggerty on his relationship with Rodtang

Despite their competitive fire, Rodtang and Jonathan Haggerty maintain a profound respect for each other, transcending the typical fighter-to-fighter dynamic. This sentiment was confirmed by Haggerty’s coach, Christian Knowles, as he highlighted their strong chemistry. Haggerty himself has also affirmed this mutual respect.

“The General” shed light on his unique relationship with Rodtang Jitmuangnon, saying, “We have a funny relationship, Rodtang and I. There’s absolutely no animosity between us. Whenever we bump into each other, we always share a hug and well wishes before fights. It’s unlike the hostility you see with other opponents. He’s a genuinely respectful person.“

All eyes are now on Jonathan Haggerty as he prepares to face Superlek Kitamoo9 at ONE 168; Denver, who has previously defeated Rodtang. Can Haggerty defend his ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Championship? Stay tuned for further updates.