Reigning ONE bantamweight kickboxing world champion, Englishman Jonathan Haggerty, is beyond honored to join arguably the most important combat sports event of 2025.
“The General” will look to reclaim supremacy in two sports when he challenges Nabil Anane for the ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world title in blockbuster ONE 173 on November 16 at Ariake Arena in Tokyo.
With several world championships on the line and more fights expected to be announced, this highly anticipated card features a line-up of top martial artists in kickboxing, Muay Thai, mixed martial arts and submission grappling.
For Haggerty, being part of history in the making excites him to give his best. The 28-year-old attacker told the South China Morning Post (SCMP):
Get the latest updates on One Championship rankings on Sportskeeda and more
“Yeah, it’s an amazing card. ONE Championship is putting on a show masterclass. Obviously, I’m looking forward to it. I’ll be excited to be on that show, for sure, but for now, the show looks amazing.”
Haggerty defended his 26-pound gold at ONE 171 in February, where he fended off dangerous challenger, “Demon Blade” Wei Rui of China.
Now, the representative of Team Underground and Knowlesy Academy hopes to continue his momentum, end Anane’s seven-game winning streak and reclaim his lost throne.
Watch the full interview with SCMP below:
Jonathan Haggerty does not fear the underdog label against Nabil Anane
Nabil Anane is a bizarre specimen, dominating the opposition with his imposing figure and immense skills in “The Art of Eight Limbs.”
The ONE undisputed bantamweight MMA world champion is a problem for everyone in the division, including Jonathan Haggerty.
However, “The General” remains imperturbable. After all, he’s used to being excluded and shocking the world. The British attacker told SCMP:
“I’ve always been written off before. When I fought Nong-O, everyone thought no, I won’t be able to do it. When I fought Sam-A, everyone thought I couldn’t do it. Maybe they’ll think the same against Nabil until I do it. So let’s do it.”
Follow Sportskeeda for updates on ONE 173. Visit onefc.com for broadcast details in your region.
Edited by Aziel Karthak
