By Jan Carlo Anolin
Is it too soon for the rematch between Danny Kingad and Demetrious Johnson?
Danny Kingad, right, about to strike Demetrious Johnson during the ONE: Century Part I flyweight world grand prix championship final. (ONE Championship Images, File)
It may be far down the line at this point but Kingad is eager to face off with the former UFC flyweight champion once again.
“If they will give me a rematch, I think kayang-kaya ko,” Kingad said Tuesday during the ONE: Fire & Fury open workout at One Esplanade in Pasay City.
Demetrious Johnson (ONE Championship Images)
While it is a given that Johnson has the edge in terms of speed and experience, Kingad believes that he can outpower the 33-year-old American fighter.
Kingad wants the match to be in the Philippines should it be granted.
Amid the talks, the 24-year-old Sadanga, Mountain Province native said he will take it one match at a time to see what’s in store for 2020.
“Target for this year is focus muna ako sa training and always, kung sino man ‘yung itatapat sa akin, kukunin at kukunin ko siya.”
Before that dream fight happens, Kingad has to face China’s Xie Wei in the flyweight bout this Friday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Danny Kingad poses during the ONE: Fire & Fury open workout. (ONE Championship Images)
Kingad said he’s at peak confidence coming off a loss to Johnson last October 2019 – his first since 2017, and he has vowed to bounce back and apply what he wasn’t able to execute before.
“Araw-araw ko talaga pinapanood, pinag-aaralan ko talaga ‘yung mga mistakes ko then pumupunta ako sa gym para pag-aralan ,” Kingad said.
“Kailangan natin magpursigi. Climb the ladder ulit para tataas ulit tayo.”