Demetrious Johnson Retires at ONE 168, Aged 38

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Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson has officially hung up his gloves at the tender age of 38.

The former UFC legend, GOAT contender, and ONE Flyweight Champion announced his retirement during ONE 168 at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado, on Friday night. It was an emotional farewell for the icon, widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters to ever step into the cage.

“It’s been a long, amazing career,” Johnson said, addressing the crowd. “Like I said last time when I came to Denver, I told you guys it was potentially my last fight, and I was not lying. I am done. I am done competing in mixed martial arts.”

Johnson, visibly emotional, thanked the fans who had followed him through the highs and lows of his legendary run.

His gratitude extended to his teammates, family, and everyone at ONE Championship, calling out his wife and children for their constant support. “You guys have made me a better person, a better athlete,” Johnson added.

After the announcement, Johnson was inducted into the ONE Championship Hall of Fame. While this may be his last time fighting in MMA, “Mighty Mouse” hinted he may still test himself on the mats, likely in jiu-jitsu competitions under the ONE banner—where he has recently been very successful.

This retirement marks a remarkable career. Johnson broke records in the UFC, where he defended his flyweight title 11 consecutive times between 2012-2018.

In one of MMA’s most historic trades, Johnson left the UFC in 2018 when he was swapped for Ben Askren in a deal that sent shockwaves through the sport.

Since defeating Adriano Moraes in their trilogy bout over a year ago, Johnson has explored podcasting and grappling competitions. His influence stretches into all aspects of the sport of MMA and its wide-reaching community of influencers and younger audiences, where DJ is thriving on growing his own YouTube and social media channels.

In his final address to the fans, Johnson emphasized his appreciation: “Thank you to everybody at ONE Championship… to the competition team, the social media team. All you guys, I appreciate you. Like I said, I am done. Thank you guys so much for giving me the opportunity.”

The mixed martial arts world says goodbye to one of its finest competitors, but the legacy of Demetrious Johnson will continue to inspire future generations and we’re certain to be seeing his experience in commentary and online content.

DJ finished his speech with a heartfelt thanks to those closest in his life: “Thank you to my dad. He’s been in my life for the last eight years. He’s been absolutely amazing. To my children, I love you guys. You guys are absolutely amazing. You guys do whatever you want in life. As long as you guys are good people. My wife, I love you.”

In some way, the entire MMA community feels that appreciation, too.