Jonathan Haggerty Open to Fight with Scottish Rival Nico Carrillo
Reigning ONE bantamweight kickboxing world champion, Jonathan Haggerty, popularly known as ‘The General’, has expressed interest in facing his long-standing Scottish rival, Nico Carrillo, inside the ONE Championship ring.1
Despite their careers following different paths, Haggerty is confident that it’s not too late for him and ‘King of the North’ Carrillo to eventually meet in a highly anticipated showdown.
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Haggerty’s Rise to Fame
Haggerty has established himself as one of the top fighters in the world of Muay Thai and kickboxing, with an impressive resume that includes winning the ONE Muay Thai bantamweight title and later transitioning to capture the ONE bantamweight kickboxing world title.
Known for his aggressive fighting style and precise striking, Haggerty’s rise through the ranks of ONE Championship has made him a global superstar in combat sports. His ability to seamlessly switch between Muay Thai and kickboxing disciplines showcases his versatility as a fighter.
The Potential Clash with Carrillo
The idea of a fight between Haggerty and Carrillo has intrigued fans for quite some time. Carrillo, who has also carved out a successful career in Muay Thai and kickboxing, is widely regarded as one of Scotland’s top combat sports athletes.
Both fighters have expressed respect for each other’s skills, but the rivalry has simmered over the years due to their competitive nature and shared dominance in similar weight classes.
A Matter of Pride and Legacy
- For Haggerty, a bout with Carrillo is not just another fight—it’s a matter of pride and legacy. Haggerty has always maintained a strong sense of national pride, representing England on the global stage.
- Facing Carrillo, who is equally proud of his Scottish roots, would be a thrilling matchup not just for the fighters themselves but for fans across the United Kingdom and beyond.
- The rivalry between the two would add an extra layer of excitement, with both men vying for the bragging rights as the superior fighter from their respective countries.
- A fight of this magnitude would likely be one of the most highly anticipated matchups in the ONE Championship.
Also Read:Â Superbon Eager to See Superlek Strategy Against Giant Nico Carrillo in Potential Showdown
Jonathan Haggerty on Nico Carrillo: “No Bad Blood, I Wish Him the Best”
Despite the anticipation surrounding a potential showdown between Jonathan Haggerty and Scottish fighter Nico Carrillo, the reigning ONE bantamweight kickboxing world champion insists that there’s no animosity between the two.2
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Known as ‘The General’, Haggerty has been vocal about his respect for Carrillo and has openly stated that he holds no grudges, regardless of whether the highly anticipated fight materializes or not.
A Show of Mutual Respect
Haggerty’s remarks reflect a sense of professionalism and mutual respect that often underpins rivalries in combat sports. Although the two have long been compared, Haggerty emphasized that there is “no bad blood” between him and Carrillo, squashing any notions of a personal feud.
This approach highlights Haggerty’s maturity and sportsmanship, qualities that have endeared him to fans around the world.
The Possibility of a Carrillo-Superlek Fight
With Carrillo potentially eyeing a matchup with Superlek Kiatmoo9, a two-time Muay Thai world champion, Haggerty’s response showcases his willingness to take things in stride.
Superlek, widely regarded as one of the most dangerous fighters in the Muay Thai scene, represents a formidable challenge for anyone who steps into the ring with him. Carrillo taking on such a fighter could mark a major step in his career.
Haggerty’s Own Journey
- While Carrillo may be looking at a bout with Superlek, Haggerty continues to focus on his own title reign in ONE Championship. As a multi-discipline fighter who has held titles in both Muay Thai and kickboxing, Haggerty is no stranger to tough opponents.
- His recent victory to claim the ONE bantamweight kickboxing world title solidified his position as one of the top fighters in the world.
- With a strong fanbase and a reputation for delivering electrifying performances in the ring, Haggerty’s journey is far from over.
- Whether or not a future bout with Carrillo happens, Haggerty is focused on maintaining his championship reign and proving that he is the best in his division.
Nico Carrillo: A Rising Star in Muay Thai
Nico Carrillo (born October 17, 1998), is a Scottish Muay Thai fighter who has quickly risen through the ranks to establish himself as one of the top athletes in the sport. Known for his technical precision, aggressive style, and relentless drive, Carrillo has become a force to be reckoned with in the global Muay Thai scene.
As of October 2024, Carrillo holds the prestigious positions of WMO Welterweight World Champion and ISKA Muay Thai World 65 kg Champion. Additionally, he is ranked as the #1 contender in the ONE Championship Bantamweight Muay Thai division, a testament to his growing influence and success in combat sports.
Early Career and Rise to Stardom
Born and raised in Scotland, Carrillo’s journey into the world of Muay Thai started at a young age. Growing up, he was inspired by the traditional values of discipline, respect, and hard work, which are at the core of martial arts.
From his early teenage years, it was clear that Carrillo had a unique talent for the sport. His sharp techniques and ability to read his opponents in the ring quickly set him apart.
Scotland’s Nico Carrillo will challenge Superlek Kiatmoo9 for the ONE Championship Muay Thai bantamweight world title 💥
— Sky Sports (@SkySports) October 18, 2024
Championship Success and Dominance in Muay Thai
Carrillo’s career reached new heights when he claimed the WMO Welterweight World Championship, a title that cemented his position among the elite fighters in the sport. Shortly after, he captured the ISKA Muay Thai World 65 kg Championship, further demonstrating his dominance in the division.
These victories were not only a reflection of his hard work and skill but also a testament to his ability to consistently perform at the highest level.
The Potential Matchup with Jonathan Haggerty
- One of the most talked-about potential matchups in the Muay Thai world is a clash between Nico Carrillo and current ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Champion, Jonathan Haggerty.
- Fans have been eager to see the two face off, as both fighters are considered among the best in their division.
- While Haggerty recently expressed that there is “no bad blood” between him and Carrillo, he also acknowledged the possibility of them stepping into the ring together.
- Carrillo’s rise to the #1 ranking in the bantamweight division makes this matchup even more likely, as it would pit two of the sport’s most exciting fighters against each other in a high-stakes contest.
Also Read:Â Nico Carrillo Refutes Claims of Leg Kick Weakness After Fierce Nong-O Battle
Nico Carrillo: Rising to World Champion in Muay Thai
Nico Carrillo’s journey to the pinnacle of Muay Thai has been defined by his talent, discipline, and determination. In March and April 2022, Carrillo claimed two pivotal victories that solidified his place among the world’s top Muay Thai fighters.
His victories over Jeremy Monteiro and Saeksan Or. Kwanmuang were not only technical masterclasses but also essential in elevating his reputation as one of the most formidable athletes in the sport.
The Road to the ISKA World Title: Overcoming Jeremy Monteiro
The first landmark moment came on March 26, 2022, when Nico Carrillo stepped into the ring against Jeremy Monteiro for the ISKA Muay Thai World 65 kg title at the Combat Fight Series 7 event. This was no ordinary fight, as Carrillo was competing for one of the most coveted titles in the Muay Thai world.
Monteiro, an experienced and tough fighter, provided a formidable challenge, but Carrillo entered the fight with confidence and a well-thought-out strategy.
Facing the Thai Challenge: Saeksan Or. Kwanmuang
Just a month later, on April 23, 2022, Carrillo faced an even greater challenge when he took on Saeksan Or. Kwanmuang at the Siam Warriors event. Saeksan, a seasoned Thai fighter with an impressive track record, represented a significant step up in competition for Carrillo.
This was also the first time Carrillo would face a Thai champion, adding extra pressure to the fight.
Carrillo’s Rise to the Top
These two victories were pivotal in Nico Carrillo’s rise as a world champion. His ability to defeat Monteiro and Saeksan in back-to-back fights demonstrated his technical prowess, mental fortitude, and adaptability. Carrillo’s journey from a young talent to a world champion was marked by relentless hard work and a deep commitment to his craft.
Nico Carrillo’s Biggest Challenge Yet: A Showdown with Nong-O Hama
On December 22, 2024, the Muay Thai world will witness one of its most anticipated clashes as Nico Carrillo, the current WMO Welterweight World Champion and ISKA Muay Thai World 65 kg Champion, faces former ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world champion Nong-O Hama at ONE Friday Fights 46.
The fight is set to take place in the legendary Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, a venue steeped in Muay Thai tradition. This bout will be a defining moment in Carrillo’s career as he steps into the ring against one of the sport’s most decorated champions.
The Road to ONE Championship
For Carrillo, this fight represents the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and countless hours spent honing his craft in the gym and inside the ring.
Since capturing the ISKA Muay Thai World 65 kg title and achieving significant victories against top-tier fighters like Jeremy Monteiro and Saeksan Or. Kwanmuang in 2022, Carrillo has steadily built his reputation as one of the most promising fighters in the world of Muay Thai.
Nong-O Hama: A Legend of Muay Thai
Facing Nong-O Hama, a Muay Thai legend, is a challenge that few fighters are prepared for. With multiple world titles and a storied career spanning over two decades, Nong-O is widely regarded as one of the greatest Muay Thai fighters of all time. He has fought and defeated some of the best in the sport, and his experience inside the ring is unmatched.
Carrillo’s Strategy: Facing the Legend
In preparing for a fighter as experienced and skilled as Nong-O Hama, Carrillo will need to bring his best game plan to the table. One of Carrillo’s key strengths is his versatility.
He has shown time and again that he can switch between offensive and defensive strategies based on the needs of the fight. Against a veteran like Nong-O, Carrillo will need to rely on his speed, footwork, and ability to control distance.
FAQ’S
1. Who are Jonathan Haggerty and Nico Carrillo?
Ans: Jonathan Haggerty is a British Muay Thai fighter known for his technical skill and powerful striking, and he’s a former ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion. Nico Carrillo is a rising star in the Muay Thai scene, known for his aggressive fighting style and determination to make a mark on the global stage.
2. What is the background of the rivalry between Haggerty and Carrillo?
Ans: The rivalry between Haggerty and Carrillo has been brewing for some time, fueled by their competitive nature and desire to prove who’s the superior fighter. Both have exchanged words in the media, and the anticipation for a showdown has only grown, with fans eager to see the two clash in the ring.
3. Why is this fight important for both fighters?
Ans: For Jonathan Haggerty, this fight is a chance to solidify his legacy and maintain his position as one of the top Muay Thai fighters in the world. For Nico Carrillo, it’s an opportunity to take down a seasoned champion and elevate his career by defeating a high-profile opponent.
4. What are the key strengths of Haggerty and Carrillo?
Ans: Haggerty is known for his precision, strong defense, and ability to control the pace of the fight, while Carrillo is recognized for his relentless aggression, knockout power, and willingness to engage in a toe-to-toe battle. The contrast in styles makes for an exciting and unpredictable matchup.
5. When and where will the fight take place?
Ans: The date and venue of the fight are yet to be officially announced, but it’s expected to take place at a major international Muay Thai event in 2024. Fans of both fighters are eagerly awaiting the final details, as the fight is set to be one of the most talked-about Muay Thai matchups of the year.
Read More:Â Nico Carrillo Natural Talent in Fighting: A Reflection
