Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson, one of the most talented mixed martial artists of all time, has decided to retire from the sport. With an impressive professional record of 25-4-1, Johnson has made a significant impact on both the UFC and ONE Championship. His retirement announcement came at ONE 168 in Denver, where he last competed and successfully defended his flyweight championship against Adriano Moraes.
A Legacy of Excellence
Throughout his career, Johnson was known for his incredible speed, exceptional wrestling skills, and elusive movement inside the Octagon. Starting as a bantamweight in the UFC in 2011, Johnson eventually found his true calling in the newly introduced flyweight division. He went on to dominate the division from 2012 to 2017, establishing himself as the best flyweight in the world.
Despite his undeniable talent and success, Johnson faced challenges within the UFC, particularly when the promotion considered closing the flyweight division due to a lack of star power. His reign as champion was so dominant that the UFC struggled to find him a worthy opponent. Ultimately, Johnson lost his title to Henry Cejudo in a controversial split decision before being traded to ONE Championship for Ben Askren in 2018.
Success in ONE Championship
In his new home at ONE Championship, Johnson continued to showcase his skills and determination. While he initially fell short in his bid for the ONE Championship title against Moraes, Johnson eventually secured the title in a thrilling rematch. His impact on ONE Championship was so significant that he was announced as the first fighter to be inducted into their Hall of Fame.
As Johnson bids farewell to MMA, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and accomplishment. Despite not having competed in the UFC for over five years, he still holds numerous flyweight records within the organization. Johnson’s decision to retire marks the end of an era in MMA, but his influence on the sport will be remembered for years to come.
In his emotional retirement speech, Johnson made it clear that he was leaving the sport on his own terms. As he steps away from the cage, he takes with him a lifetime of memories, victories, and the respect of fans and fellow fighters alike. Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson may be retiring, but his impact on MMA will continue to shine bright for generations to come.