Jonathan Haggerty Outclasses Wei Rui To Retain ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Title
Jonathan “The General” Haggerty proved he is the real deal in kickboxing by defending his crown against a man who rode into ONE 171: Qatar with a slew of accolades in the sport.
The British superstar will return to England with his ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Title in tow following a shutdown of China’s “Demon Blade” Wei Rui at Lusail Sports Arena on Thursday, February 20.
The 28-year-old fighting out of Team Underground and Knowlesy Academy took a round to truly get started, as Wei attacked early and attacked hard. But as the fight wore on, Haggerty’s World Championship spirit and skills shined through.
“The General” began to take control of the five-round fight with his punches and footwork, rarely staying still for long enough for his opponent to attack with combinations. When Wei did land clean punches and low kicks, Haggerty made sure to finish the exchanges with his own attacks.
Despite the challenger rallying back in the waning moments of the fight, Haggerty’s strategy of attacking first and last worked in his favor, as all three judges awarded him the unanimous decision.
With the victory, Haggerty not only defended his ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Title for the first time and improved his all-striking record to 23-5, but he also snapped Wei’s incredible 21-fight winning steak.
