One of the most iconic figures in mixed martial arts, Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson, has officially announced his retirement, capping off a career that has spanned over a decade and set a standard for excellence in the sport. Johnson, who celebrated his 38th birthday last month, chose to hang up his gloves while still holding the ONE Championship bantamweight title, adding yet another remarkable chapter to his legacy.
Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson Announces Retirementhttps://t.co/sV0wIkGUhp
— Delinquent MMA (@DelinquentMMA) September 7, 2024
Johnson’s retirement announcement came during an emotional speech at ONE Championship’s event in Denver, Colorado, where he was also inducted into the promotion’s Hall of Fame. Fighting professionally since 2009, Johnson has built a resume that few can match, having set numerous records in the UFC before making the transition to ONE Championship in 2019. Despite being urged to relinquish his title belt as part of his retirement, Johnson firmly declared that he would leave the sport as a world champion, holding onto the belt as a symbol of his triumphs.
Throughout his career, Johnson was known for his agility, speed, and unmatched technical skills, making him a formidable competitor in the flyweight and bantamweight divisions. Despite stepping away from the octagon, he has remained active in recent months, competing in grappling tournaments at the black belt level. Even as he excelled in other forms of competition, Johnson has now chosen to bring his MMA career to a close on his terms.
In his heartfelt speech, Johnson expressed gratitude to the fans, his family, and teammates who have supported him since the beginning of his journey. His emotion was palpable as he thanked those who helped shape his career, from his coaches and teammates to his family, especially his wife and children. Fighting back tears, Johnson said, “First off, I want to say thank you to the fans. You guys have always been amazing to me as I live out my dreams and show my passion through martial arts.”
He extended his appreciation to ONE Championship’s team, including its owner, Chatri Sityodtong, for providing him with a platform to continue his career after his historic run in the UFC. Johnson also gave special recognition to his family, thanking his wife for her unwavering support and his children for their patience as he pursued his passion. “Thank you to my wife for always encouraging me to pursue my passion, my dreams. Thank you to everybody at ONE Championship, the staff, the competition team, and the social media team—we appreciate you.”
The end of an era! Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson announces retirement at ONE 168: Denver. Honored as the first inductee into the ONE Championship Hall of Fame!
#MMA #ONEChampionship
READ: https://t.co/9u3VtPeqnG pic.twitter.com/Nm6DeEdh99
— Sports Bytes (@sportsph) September 7, 2024
Johnson’s career is one for the history books. He initially rose to prominence in the UFC, where he dominated the flyweight division and set records that still stand today, including most consecutive title defenses in UFC history. Widely regarded as one of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters of all time, Johnson left an indelible mark on the sport with his strategic brilliance, unparalleled technique, and ability to adapt to any challenge thrown his way.
His move to ONE Championship in 2019 came as a shock to many, but Johnson quickly established himself as a force in the organization. His ability to seamlessly transition between different promotions while maintaining his status as a world-class fighter only added to his legendary status. Even as he faced new competition, Johnson never wavered in his commitment to excellence, capturing ONE Championship gold and proving that his skills were timeless.
As Johnson’s career comes to a close, the MMA world is left to reflect on the impact he has had on the sport. A true innovator in the cage, Johnson’s legacy extends beyond his title wins and records. He revolutionized the way smaller fighters are perceived, showing that elite skill and intelligence could dominate even in divisions traditionally overlooked. His sportsmanship and professionalism set him apart, earning him respect not just from fans but from fellow fighters and analysts alike.
Demetrious Johnson announces retirement from MMA
Thank You, ‘Mighty Mouse’
#UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/O03jLkMUXo
— Sportskeeda MMA (@sportskeedaMMA) September 7, 2024
Looking ahead, Johnson’s retirement leaves a void in the sport, but his influence will continue to resonate for years to come. His work ethic, humility, and passion for martial arts have inspired countless athletes, and his contributions to MMA will not be forgotten. Although he will no longer compete, his legacy as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time is firmly cemented.
In his final remarks during his retirement speech, Johnson thanked the MMA community one last time, saying, “I was not lying, I am done competing in Mixed Martial Arts, and I want to say thank you guys so much for giving me the opportunity. I appreciate you all.” With those words, Johnson stepped away from the sport, not as a defeated fighter, but as a champion who exits on his own terms, holding his head high.
Key Points:
i. Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson has announced his retirement from mixed martial arts after an illustrious career spanning over a decade.
ii. Johnson, who celebrated his 38th birthday last month, leaves the sport while still holding the ONE Championship bantamweight title, choosing to retire as a world champion.
iii. Known for his agility, technical prowess, and dominance in both UFC and ONE Championship, Johnson is widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters of all time.
iv. In an emotional speech, Johnson thanked his family, fans, teammates, and ONE Championship staff for their support throughout his career.
v. Johnson’s retirement marks the end of an era in MMA, but his legacy as an innovator and trailblazer in the sport will continue to inspire future generations.
Fallon Jacobson – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News