‘A Dream That Will Come True’ – Adriano Moraes Honored To Headline ONE’s U.S. Debut In 2023

Adriano Moraes will play his part in history when he headlines ONE Championship’s first live event in the United States on May 5, 2023.

That evening, the Brazilian superstar will challenge MMA legend Demetrious Johnson in an epic trilogy bout for the ONE Flyweight World Title at ONE on Prime Video 10 at 1stBank Center in Broomfield, Colorado.

ONE’s Prime Video cards have already elevated the promotion within North America by airing live in U.S. primetime on the massive streaming platform.

Now, Moraes can’t wait to have a physical presence in the continent and show fans exactly what the world’s largest martial arts organization is all about.

“Mikinho” said:

“I was very happy with this news that the ONE Championship will be holding its first event in the United States. And I’m also very happy because I’m going to fight for the first time in the United States. 

“I really like a quote by Demetrious Johnson where he said, ‘The greatest fighters have always fought on both sides of the world.’ I’ve fought in Brazil, I’ve fought in Asia, and now it’s time to fight in the United States.

“ONE certainly deserves all the best, as they work hard for the growth of the sport. And I’m very excited and happy about it.”

ONE has always offered up incredible in-stadium experiences across the biggest arenas in Asia, and the May 5 event will showcase its elite roster to those watching in the United States. 

The nation is one of the biggest hubs for combat sports, and Moraes thinks this fresh venture will kick-start an exciting new era.

The 34-year-old said:

“Undoubtedly, it is a very important moment for the company. The company has always dreamed of holding an event on the other side of the world and closing major partnerships. I believe this moment has arrived.

“It’s a dream that will come true, and it will give fighters many opportunities.”

Moraes: ‘It’s Very Rewarding To Have This Opportunity’

There’s a lot riding on Adriano Moraes’ shoulders as he prepares for the headlining slot at ONE on Prime Video 10. 

Not only does he have all eyes on him in this ONE Flyweight World Title challenge, but he also must bounce back from the first knockout loss of his career against Demetrious Johnson.

But just like Johnson returned stronger after a KO defeat in their first meeting, the Brazilian believes his own setback has only made him a better competitor.

Moraes explained:

“It was a big loss for my career. I learned a lot from that defeat. Especially because sharing the cage with one of the best fighters in the world is always a great learning experience. I always like to say that we earn a lot and learn a lot. 

“So, my biggest lesson is that no matter how much we get beaten up inside the cage, life will definitely hit harder. So, we always have to be prepared.”

Johnson vs. Moraes III is considered the biggest trilogy bout in ONE history, and given the incredible endings to the first two encounters, fans can’t wait to see how things play out in Colorado.

Moraes has always emerged stronger after defeats, but whatever happens, he is happy to play a role in this moment that MMA fans will remember for years to come.

He added:

“Making this trilogy means a lot to me. It’s an honor for me to be able to make history in MMA facing an athlete like Demetrious Johnson – an athlete I never imagined I would face, and now I’m going to fight him for the third time. 

“It’s very rewarding to have this opportunity, and I’m very happy to be doing this trilogy against one of the best fighters in the world.”