Watch How A Superfan Reacted To Meeting His Hero, Demetrious Johnson
Canon Spriggs just had a weekend he will never forget.
The American superfan — who won the “ONE Hero Story” social media contest by sharing how Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson changed his life — was flown out to Tokyo, Japan to witness ONE Championship’s historic 100th event, ONE: CENTURY, on Sunday, 13 October.
Spriggs, who suffers from epilepsy and schizoaffective disorder, looks up to the 13-time Flyweight World Champion because he continues to succeed at the highest level of mixed martial arts despite his small stature.
Additionally, he admires Johnson’s attitude and demeanor.
“He also showed me you don’t have to talk rude about your opponent,” Spriggs explained. “You can be a nice guy and also an incredible fighter. You can be humble, and you can respect the art side of martial arts.”
After Johnson defeated Danny “The King” Kingad via unanimous decision to claim the ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix Championship, he surprised Spriggs backstage at the Ryogoku Kokugikan.
“I’m glad I could be an inspiration to you, man,” the 33-year-old living legend said to him.
“When I started this journey in mixed martial arts, it was just training. It was never to inspire anybody, it was just for me to do something with my life, and have fun. But I’m so happy that it was able to inspire you.”
Spriggs was elated to meet his hero and talk to him more intimately.
Also, Johnson gave the “ONE Hero Story” winner a signed ONE Championship t-shirt, draped the 12-kilogram ONE World Grand Prix belt over his shoulder, and took a picture with him.
“Man, it’s insane. It’s incredible. It’s a very humbling experience seeing such an amazing martial artist and such a nice man,” Spriggs said following their special meet-and-greet.
“It really gives you something to look up to and really gives me a goal to reach for, to be on that level.”
Watch the backstage meeting between Johnson and Spriggs, as well as his submission video for the “ONE Hero Story” social media contest.
