Demetrious Johnson, a legendary UFC and former ONE flyweight champion, announced his retirement from mixed martial arts at ONE 168 in Denver, Colo., though he may still compete in jiu-jitsu and was inducted into the ONE Championship Hall of Fame.
Demetrious Johnson is done.
The UFC legend and former ONE flyweight champion announced his retirement at ONE 168. It happened at the Ball Arena in Denver, Colo., on Friday evening.
“Like I said last time when I came to Denver, Colo., I told you guys it was potentially my last fight, and I was not lying. I am done. I am done competing in mixed martial arts, and I want to thank you guys so much for giving me the opportunity,” an emotional Johnson told the crowd.
Johnson, who might still compete in jiu-jitsu for ONE, was inducted into the ONE Championship Hall of Fame after his speech.
Since defeating Adriano Moraes at a ONE Fight Night event in Broomfield, Colo., 16 months ago, Johnson has stayed busy with his podcasting career. He’s also been taking part in grappling competitions.
The 38-year-old is widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in the history of combat sports. Prior to his successful ONE run, Johnson was a star in the UFC.
He set the record for the most consecutive title defenses by retaining the flyweight title 11 straight times from 2012-2018.
Johnson’s tenure with the UFC ended in October 2018 when he was traded to ONE for Ben Askren. It was a historic deal between major promotions.