WATCH: Jonathan Haggerty and Rodtang’s first war of attrition for the flyweight Muay Thai throne in Manila

When Jonathan Haggerty won the ONE flyweight Muay Thai world title against Sam-A Gaiyanghadao in May 2019 at ONE: For Honor, he was primed to rule the division for a long time.

But his reign was cut short after he faced Rodtang Jitmuangnon in his first world title defense in August 2019 at ONE: Dawn of Heroes, which went down inside the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines.

In a recent clip that ONE Championship posted on Instagram, Haggerty was seen eating powerful shots from Rodtang in their first meeting. The video had the caption:

"A clash of titans 🥊😤 Does Jonathan Haggerty have what it takes to successfully defend the ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Title against Superlek at ONE 168: Denver? @jhaggerty_"

As seen in the video, 'The General' was able to withstand a combination from 'The Iron Man' and remained composed during the showdown. He even landed a left hook and an elbow of his own to slow down the barrage from his Thai opposition.

Unfortunately, Haggerty lost that match to Rodtang via a unanimous decision to yield the world title. It was his first setback under the world's largest martial arts organization.

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Jonathan Haggerty to defend his ONE bantamweight Muay Thai title against Superlek Kiatmoo9 on September 6

Following those two losses to Rodtang in 2019 and 2020, Haggerty went on a tear and has never dropped a match since. He won his last six fights and became a two-sport world champion by securing the ONE bantamweight Muay Thai and kickboxing world titles.

The British superstar is coming off a successful world championship defense against Felipe Lobo in February 2024 at ONE Fight Night 19. Now, he is currently preparing for his second world title defense on September 6 at ONE 168: Denver, where he is set to face the challenge of Superlek Kiatmoo9, who currently reigns as the ONE flyweight kickboxing world champion.

ONE 168: Denver will air live from the Ball Arena in U.S. primetime on September 6. Tickets for the event are now on sale on Ticketmaster.