ONE: Demetrious Johnson barges into Grand Prix final, faces Danny Kingad next

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.

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.”

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