Jonathan Haggerty claimed the best win of his career as he stunned Nong-O Hama with a first-round knock-out to take the One Championship bantamweight Muay Thai belt in Bangkok last weekend.
Walworth Road’s Haggerty, 26, was the underdog at Lumpinee Stadium against the Thai fighter, who had successfully defended his title seven times. But Haggerty took less than three minutes to end the contest with a flurry of punches following two knock-downs.
Former ONE flyweight champion Haggerty moved up to bantamweight in 2022.
“I’m excited and I’m over the moon,” Haggerty said ringside after his victory over a legend of the sport. “To beat Nong-O – I feel like he was the boy, he ruled Muay Thai – to do what I did, to not only beat him but knock him out, I guess I’m the boy now.
“I want to say it wasn’t easy but it was. I’m sure he had a lot left in the tank if he was able to stay on his feet.
“I wish him a speedy recovery. What a great legend.”
Haggerty has several options as he defends his belt and could face another Briton, Liam Harrison.
“One hundred per cent,” Haggerty said when asked about that possibility. “O2, Wembley, wherever.
“I’ve got the utmost respect for him and what he’s done for the sport. Once we get in that ring, respect goes out the window, and I will punch holes in you.
“I never turn down a fight.
“I feel at home [at Bantamweight], I feel stronger. I’m not dehydrated, I’m not weak, I’m not fatigued.
“I feel good, so you get the best Jonathan Haggerty.”