After 13 weeks of intense training, Jonathan Haggerty is ready to defend his title in Denver

General Jonathan Haggerty will have the biggest fight of his career on September 6th when he defends his Muay Thai world title against Superlek Kiatmoo9 in the main event of ONE 168. The fight will take place on the hill in Denver, Colorado.

Jonathan Haggerty United States

English-born Jonathan Haggerty got his start on the ONE Championship stage and in Muay Thai, fighting various champions, including Rodtang Jitmuangnon. But since bulking up, “The General” has enjoyed tremendous success.

Jonathan Haggerty, 27, knocked out Nong-O Hama to win Muay Thai gold, then knocked out Fabricio Andrade to win the kickboxing title and defended his Muay Thai title by knockout against Felipe Lobo. He will now face the best Muay Thai fighter in the world, Superlek Kiatmoo9, at ONE 168.

Fighting in Colorado, USA is no small feat. The altitude makes it a huge challenge for even the world’s best athletes. To better prepare, Haggery spent weeks training in Denver. In an interview, the English athlete explained:

“We left no stone unturned. I know everyone says that, but it’s honestly the hardest camp I’ve ever had. It’s been 13 weeks of solid, hard work, diet, focus. We’re here in Denver, acclimating. I think it was a great idea to come out four weeks before the fight.

“We just wanted to have an advantage. We wanted to get our foot in the door as soon as possible. You know, we wanted an advantage. So we came to Denver four weeks early to get acclimated, get used to it, no excuses. So when fight night comes, we’ll be more than ready.

“We’re so high up and I’m trying to catch my breath after a hectic round on the pads. It’s quite difficult. The first day we came here, it was tough. But we did so well that we acclimatized so early and now we’re running in the mountains, doing our fitness.

“I mean, it’s a benefit, but more than anything, it’s great for your mind, you know? Just knowing that you’re ready and you’re one step ahead.”