ONE Championship's Best Individual Performances Through First Quadrimestre Of 2019
#3 Jonathan Haggerty Defeats Sam-A Gaiyanghadao at ONE: FOR HONOR
Almost no one gave young Jonathan Haggerty a chance to defeat Muay Thai legend Sam-A Gaiyanghadao, but that's what he did at ONE: FOR HONOR.
In one of the most improbable and entertaining martial arts bouts of the year, Haggerty pulled the upset and took Sam-A's ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Championship.
The match was a back-and-forth affair, but Haggerty made it known early that he would be a problem for Sam-A.
He showed no signs of nerves or inexperience, despite giving up years and a plethora of bouts to the champion.
Haggerty stood his ground early and commanded the center of the ring. His counter elbows, knees, and a consistent jab helped to earn him some early respect.
By the middle of the bout, Haggerty's strength in the clinch and signature lead elbow over the top had weakened Sam-A.
At the close of what turned out to be an instant classic, Haggerty had dethroned the champion and positioned himself as the hunted in the division.