Adriano Moraes’ career is a testament to perseverance, skill, and mental toughness. His stunning victory over Demetrious Johnson at ONE on TNT 1 was a career-defining moment, but it was also just one chapter in his journey
Despite recent setbacks, Moraes remains one of the most talented fighters in the flyweight division and has the potential to return to the top.
Moraes’ story is far from over, and fans can expect to see more from the Brazilian star as he continues to chase greatness in the years to come.
Adriano Moraes has consistently been one of the most well-rounded fighters in the ONE flyweight division. Known for his Brazilian jiu-jitsu background, Moraes has evolved over the years to become a more complete martial artist.
His striking has improved, and his cage awareness and fight IQ have always been among his standout attributes.
Despite his recent losses to Demetrious Johnson in their trilogy, Moraes remains a dangerous fighter with the tools to reclaim championship gold. His ground game is still among the most feared in the division, and his ability to capitalize on opponents’ mistakes is unmatched.
Against Danny Kingad, Moraes will likely look to impose his grappling early, aiming to replicate his success from their first encounter while being mindful of Kingad’s growth as a fighter.
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Adriano Moraes’ Rise to Global Recognition
Adriano Moraes has long been considered one of the most talented mixed martial artists in the flyweight division.1
However, it was his April 2021 victory against Demetrious Johnson at ONE on TNT 1 that catapulted him into global stardom. Before this fight, Moraes had already built an impressive career within the ONE Championship, becoming a multiple-time flyweight world champion.
Despite his domestic success, he still lacked the international recognition that would solidify his place among the best in the world.
Moraes’ matchup with Johnson, widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time, presented the perfect opportunity for him to change that narrative. Johnson, also known as “Mighty Mouse,” had a storied career in the UFC, where he dominated the flyweight division before transitioning to ONE Championship.
A win against Johnson would not only enhance Moraes’ reputation but also elevate his career to new heights.
The Defining Victory at ONE on TNT 1
On April 7, 2021, at ONE on TNT 1, Adriano Moraes seized the moment. In the second round, Moraes shocked the world by securing a knockout victory over Demetrious Johnson, delivering a devastating knee that left “Mighty Mouse” unable to continue.
The victory was historic, not just because of Johnson’s stature in the sport, but because it marked the first time that the former UFC champion had been stopped in his career.
This fight was more than just a victory for Moraes—it was a defining moment that shifted the trajectory of his career. Suddenly, the Brazilian fighter was no longer just a regional star; he was now recognized as one of the most dangerous competitors in the flyweight division on a global stage.
Reflecting on this moment in a recent interview with Party Starter Radio, Moraes said, “It’s funny because one thing can change everything. How good is the universe when you pray for something? When you do good things, everything is going to happen in your favor.”
These words reflect not only his joy but also his sense of purpose in overcoming what many saw as an insurmountable challenge.
The Psychological Impact of Beating a Legend
For Moraes, defeating a fighter of Demetrious Johnson’s caliber was a psychological turning point. The victory didn’t just prove that he could compete with the best—it validated years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication.
Moraes had been honing his skills for years within the ONE Championship, but defeating Johnson gave him an extra boost of confidence that he could beat anyone.
In his interview, Moraes hinted at the spiritual and mental preparation that went into this fight. His words, “When you do good things, everything is going to happen in your favor,” highlight the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and focusing on his goals.
Moraes’ belief in himself, combined with his disciplined training, allowed him to achieve a victory that many thought was impossible.
This victory not only cemented his place in the flyweight division but also earned him respect from fans and fighters worldwide. The win over Johnson was so impactful that it became one of the most talked-about moments in MMA in 2021, making Moraes a household name among fight fans.
Adriano Moraes: Life After Defeating Demetrious Johnson
The aftermath of Moraes’ victory over Demetrious Johnson was filled with praise and new opportunities.2
He was no longer seen as just another talented fighter from Brazil; instead, he was now the man who had defeated one of the greatest martial artists of all time. This newfound status brought with it heightened expectations and challenges.
Moraes didn’t shy away from the increased attention. Instead, he embraced it and continued to push himself in his training and performances. The victory provided him with a greater platform to showcase his skills, and he used it as motivation to maintain his high level of performance.
However, Moraes knew that the fight game is unforgiving, and resting on his laurels was not an option. In the hyper-competitive world of MMA, staying on top requires constant evolution and a relentless drive to improve. For Moraes, the win against Johnson was not the end of the journey but rather a new beginning.
6 weeks ! 🔥 https://t.co/7ViewsUTcT
— Adriano Moraes (@adrianomkmoraes) October 1, 2024
The Road Ahead: Fights Since ONE on TNT 1
After defeating Demetrious Johnson, Adriano Moraes returned to the cage with the intention of building on his momentum. His next fight came against Yuya Wakamatsu, a highly regarded contender in the flyweight division.
In a dominant performance, Moraes secured a third-round submission victory, proving that he was still at the top of his game.
Despite the win over Wakamatsu, Moraes’ journey took a challenging turn when he faced Demetrious Johnson in a highly anticipated rematch at ONE on Prime Video 1 in August 2022. Johnson, always known for his ability to adapt and improve, made the necessary adjustments and secured a victory over Moraes, evening the score between the two fighters.
The second fight was a hard-fought battle, but Johnson’s speed, technique, and experience proved too much for Moraes to handle on that night.
Their rivalry didn’t end there. In 2023, Moraes and Johnson faced off for a third time, with Johnson once again emerging victorious. This loss marked the first time Moraes had experienced back-to-back defeats in his career, sending him into 2024 with a two-fight losing streak.
Despite the setbacks, Moraes remains determined to bounce back and reclaim his position at the top of the flyweight division.
Adriano Moraes: Lessons Learned from the Trilogy
The trilogy between Moraes and Johnson became one of the most intriguing rivalries in MMA history.3
Each fight showcased the incredible skill sets of both fighters, with Moraes demonstrating his power and submission prowess, while Johnson displayed his trademark agility and adaptability.
For Moraes, the losses in the second and third fights were learning experiences. In MMA, even the best fighters face adversity, and Moraes has shown a remarkable ability to reflect on his defeats and come back stronger.
He has acknowledged the tactical brilliance of Johnson in their last two encounters, and he understands that the only way to overcome such challenges is by continuing to improve and evolve as a fighter.
In the world of combat sports, few things are as valuable as the ability to learn from defeat. Moraes, with his resilient mindset, is well-equipped to turn these losses into motivation for future success. In interviews, he has expressed a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunities to fight someone as talented as Demetrious Johnson, recognizing that their trilogy has made him a better fighter overall.
Moving Forward: What’s Next for Moraes?
As Adriano Moraes looks ahead to 2024, the flyweight contender faces the challenge of rebuilding his career after a two-fight losing streak.
The Brazilian fighter has made it clear that he is not done yet and still has plenty to prove in the sport. While his recent losses have been difficult, Moraes remains confident that he can reclaim the ONE flyweight world championship and once again be recognized as the top fighter in his division.
In the competitive world of MMA, it’s often said that a fighter is only as good as their last performance. For Moraes, the road back to the top will be difficult, but it’s a challenge he embraces with determination.
He continues to train with the same intensity that brought him success in the past, and he believes that his best days are still ahead.
As fans eagerly await Moraes’ next move, there is no doubt that his legacy in MMA is already secure. His victory over Demetrious Johnson at ONE on TNT 1 will forever be remembered as one of the most significant moments in the sport’s history. Now, it’s up to Moraes to continue writing his story and prove that he can overcome the latest obstacles in his career.
Also Read: Demetrious Johnson Bio, Age, Career, Net Worth, Personal Life And More
Adriano Moraes: Veteran of the ONE Flyweight Division
Adriano Moraes is one of the most accomplished fighters in the history of ONE Championship. With multiple reigns as the ONE Flyweight World Champion, Moraes has long been considered a dominant figure in the division.
His grappling prowess, particularly his submissions, has been a key factor in his success, as seen in his career-defining victories against elite opponents.
Moraes last held the flyweight title in his trilogy series against Demetrious Johnson, arguably the greatest MMA fighter of all time.
However, with Johnson’s retirement, the flyweight division is now more open than ever, leaving Moraes in an intriguing position. His upcoming fight against Danny Kingad at ONE 169 could propel him back into title contention.
The Retirement of Demetrious Johnson and Its Impact on the Flyweight Division
Demetrious Johnson’s retirement from mixed martial arts has left a significant void in the flyweight division of ONE Championship. Johnson, known for his technical brilliance, was a central figure, not only as the reigning champion but as a global ambassador of the sport.
With “Mighty Mouse” stepping away from competition, the title is now vacant, and the division is primed for a shift in power dynamics. This creates an opportunity for fighters like Adriano Moraes and others in the top ranks to seize the moment and aim for the flyweight throne.
While it’s unclear when ONE Championship will officially book a fight for the vacant flyweight world title, the upcoming fight between Moraes and Danny Kingad at ONE 169 may serve as a crucial stepping stone in determining the next champion.
Fans and analysts alike are speculating on whether the winner of this bout could be one of the new faces to lead the division into its next era.
Adriano Moraes: The Rematch
Moraes vs. Kingad II at ONE 169
On November 8, 2024, Adriano Moraes is set to face Danny Kingad at ONE 169.
This event was initially scheduled to take place in North America but has since been moved to the legendary Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, due to logistical changes.
This fight is a rematch of their November 2017 encounter at ONE: Legends of The World, where Moraes emerged victorious via a first-round submission. That bout showcased Moraes’ superior grappling, as he overwhelmed Kingad early on, leading to a decisive win.
This second meeting between Moraes and Kingad is highly anticipated, as Kingad has evolved significantly as a fighter since their last encounter. Known for his explosive striking and improved all-around skill set, Kingad will be looking to avenge his previous loss and catapult himself into title contention.
For Moraes, this fight presents a chance to solidify his status as one of the division’s elite and possibly set up a future shot at reclaiming the flyweight crown.
Adriano Moraes: 360 Flip
Adriano Moraes showing off his amazing skills to flip the skateboard 360 degree on his official instagram account.
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Stakes and Speculation: Could the Vacant Title Be on the Line?
- In the weeks leading up to ONE 169, there has been widespread speculation that the fight between Adriano Moraes and Danny Kingad could be elevated to a title bout, given the flyweight division’s current vacancy.
- Although there has been no official confirmation from ONE Championship, the timing and the caliber of both fighters suggest that the winner could very well be fast-tracked into a fight for the vacant world title.
- Should the fight not be for the title itself, it’s highly likely that the winner will move directly into a title eliminator against another top-ranked contender.
- One possible scenario is a matchup with number two-ranked Yuya Wakamatsu, who has been on a strong run in the division, securing victories against both Xie Wei and Kingad.
- A Moraes vs. Wakamatsu fight would be an intriguing stylistic clash, with Moraes’ grappling facing off against Wakamatsu’s striking and knockout power.
Also Read: Adriano Moraes Looks Back on His Epic KO Against Demetrious Johnson
