MANILA, Philippines–Demetrious Johnson advanced to the finals of the ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix after a unanimous decision win over Tatsumitsu Wada in the semifinals in ONE: Dawn of Heroes Friday at Mall of Asia Arena.
Johnson (29-3-1) won his 15th bout in 16 outings and his second straight after submitting Yuya Wakamatsu on May 31.
READ: Demetrious Johnson looks forward to putting on a show in Manila debut
After trading offense with Wada (21-11) in the first two rounds, Johnson turned his aggression up a notch in the third and put the Japanese to the ground where he proceeded to pummel his opponent with knees and fists.
Demetrious Johnson books his place in the ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix finals with a unanimous decision win over ultra-tough Tatsumitsu Wada! @MightyMouse #WeAreONE #DawnOfHeroes #Manila #MartialArts pic.twitter.com/1uaCiNgQHn
— ONE Championship (@ONEChampionship) August 2, 2019
Johnson’s win set up a finals match with Danny Kingad on Oct. 13 in ONE: Century in Tokyo.
READ: Danny Kingad escapes with split decision for ticket to Grand Prix finals
“It sounds like a fun fight with Danny Kingad who’s a major prospect,” said Johnson.
Despite the unanimous decision win, Johnson admitted he had his difficulties against Wada’s early aggression.
“Tonight I couldn’t get my game going because Wada locked me down,” said Johnson. “I used more ground and pound tonight.”