The British brawler is coming off a loss in his last promotional outing, and he’s ready to remind the world of his dominance when he returns to defend his crown against top-ranked divisional contender Wei Rui at ONE 171: Qatar on Thursday, February 20.
Haggerty was watching on in person when the world’s largest martial arts organization ventured to Lusail Sports Arena last year, and he made it a goal of his to compete on the card the next time ONE headed to the Middle East.
Now that his wish has come to fruition, “The General” plans to put last September’s defeat to two-sport ONE world champion Superlek Kiatmoo9 behind him by returning to the show-stopping form that won him the crown.
“I went out in March 2024 for ONE 166, and I told Mr. Chatri (Sityodtong, ONE chairman and CEO) I’d love to be a part of the next show. Obviously, we are here now, and it’s up to me to go in there and put the W in front of the L,” Haggerty stated.
“I feel confident that I can put on a spectacular performance. I want to go down the same route as I did against Andrade, so I’m thinking a second-round stoppage. I’m coming to show everyone why I’m still the best in the world.”
When it comes to his upcoming battle, Haggerty is certainly not underestimating his opponent.
Although Wei has only competed under the ONE Championship banner once, he’s long been considered the greatest Chinese striker in the world. He has also held multiple K-1 world titles and is currently riding a 20-fight winning streak.
Nonetheless, the reigning bantamweight kickboxing king feels confident. He believes his punching power and striking acumen are levels above “Demon Blade’s” and vows to wreck him en route to retaining the gold.
“I’m going from the pound-for-pound best in Superlek to another world-class striker in Wei Rui. So, I certainly rate him,” Haggerty addressed.
“He beat Hiroki Akimoto, who is great opposition in his own right. So, we are not taking him lightly. But we do think we can do a demolition job on him for sure.”
