Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson Announces Retirement, Cementing Legacy in ONE Championship

Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson, the legendary ONE Flyweight MMA World Champion and widely regarded as the greatest MMA fighter of all time, has officially retired. Johnson’s illustrious 18-year career saw him collect numerous titles globally, marking an era of dominance and excellence in mixed martial arts.

The emotional announcement came during ONE 168: Denver on September 7 (Philippine time) at Ball Arena in Colorado, in front of an adoring American crowd.

“You guys made me a better person. A better athlete. Thank you to my wife for always pushing me to pursue my dreams. Thank you to ONE Championship, the staff, the competition team, the social media team, thank you to Chatri for giving me the opportunity to display my martial arts on this platform,” Johnson said in his heartfelt retirement speech.

“Like I said last time, when I came here in Denver, Colorado, I said that it was potentially my last fight, and I was not lying. I’m done, I’m done competing in mixed martial arts, and I would like to thank you guys for giving me the opportunity. I appreciate you guys.”

Following his announcement, ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong honored Johnson by naming him the first inductee into the ONE Championship Hall of Fame.

“DJ, you’re the greatest martial artist in history for me. From one lifelong martial artist to another, I have so much mad respect for you. You traveled the entire world, fought in the two biggest organizations in the world, and conquered both. There is no other mountain for you to conquer,” Sityodtong stated.

“Not only is he the greatest mixed martial artist of all time, but he is also the first inductee into the ONE Championship Hall of Fame.”

Renowned as the best pound-for-pound fighter on the planet after dominating his division in the United States, “Mighty Mouse” transitioned to ONE Championship seeking new challenges. He faced formidable opponents like Tatsumitsu Wada and Danny “The King” Kingad, ultimately claiming the ONE Flyweight MMA World Grand Prix title.

Johnson faced setbacks, including the first KO loss of his career against former flyweight king Adriano “Mikinho” Moraes. However, he avenged this loss with a stunning flying knee finish, securing the ONE World Championship, the final accolade missing from his trophy cabinet.

In their trilogy bout, Johnson decisively defeated Moraes, showcasing his dominance with a clear-cut unanimous decision, affirming his status as the best in the world.

Johnson also pushed his limits with unique challenges, including a superfight against reigning ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon. In this historic bout, Johnson endured the first round of Muay Thai rules and then displayed his MMA prowess by submitting Rodtang in the second round.

Beyond his brilliance in the ring, Johnson is celebrated as one of the most respected fighters, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire future generations.