ONE flyweight champ Adriano Moraes. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Adriano Moraes knows the legendary status of Demetrious Johnson heading into their title clash at ONE on TNT I this April.
The Brazilian star is coming off an impressive unanimous decision win over Geje Eustaquio to recapture the ONE World flyweight title in January 2019 and although it’s been more than a year since he last fought, Mikinho is confident he will finish the MMA legend.
“Of course, my game plan is to use my muay thai, my height, then go finish him,” said Moraes in a virtual press conference for the announcement of the ONE on TNT series that begins April 7.
“I want to finish him with a special move.”
Listed at 5-foot-8, Moraes (18-3) is five inches taller than Johnson—the ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix and former UFC World flyweight champion.
Johnson (30-3-1), arguably the greatest of all time, was unfazed with Moraes’ threats, saying he’s heard the lot since he started fighting.
“I’ve been fighting a long time, I can give out a list of people who said the same exact thing but I’ll go out there and fight and do my best,” said Johnson.
Though he’s facing against the greatest fighter there is, Moraes said he’s confident of putting on a show and following his game plan to a tee.
He’s also the one with more to lose as he’s the champion heading into the match.
“I’m the champ so every time I defend my belt is going to be a special fight and this time it’s against a legend,” said Moraes. “DJ’s DJ man. He’s really good everywhere, his transition’s awesome, he’s a legend.”