Demetrious Johnson & Eddie Alvarez set for ONE debuts in Grands Prix
ONE Championship’s newest marquee signings in Demetrious Johnson and Eddie Alvarez are set to debut for the promotion inside the grand prix format.
Officials of ONE have announced today that both Johnson and Alvarez will feature as a part of flyweight and lightweight grands prix respectively.
While the participants are yet to be announced, the promotion did signify that each tournament will feature eight fighters and take place in 2019.
? MASSIVE NEWS ?
Demetrious Johnson & Eddie Alvarez will headline ONE's flyweight & lightweight Grand Prix tournaments! @Ealvarezfight @MightyMouse #WeAreONE #MartialArts pic.twitter.com/ndgGTYq6Z0— ONE Championship (@ONEChampionship) November 7, 2018
Speaking to ONE about the grand prix, Johnson professed his excitement at the opportunity to fight in a tournament setting.
“When I had the opportunity to become a ONE athlete, I couldn’t pass up that opportunity,” Johnson said.
“Now that they have announced a world grand prix for the flyweight division – it’s always been a dream of mine to compete in Asia in a grand prix.
“I’m going to give my best. I’m not going to take any shortcuts. I’m going to train my butt off. I’m going to come over here and, hopefully, the goal is I’m going to be champion.”
Alvarez meanwhile spoke of his own excitement to return to Asia and the respect he feels he will receive from the fans.
“It was in Asia where I made a name for myself and started my career,” Alvarez said. “Everything has come full circle for me. I can’t say how excited and grateful I am to be part of the ONE Championship family. This is where true martial arts lives.
“I’ve been away from Asia so long. It’s good to be back. I feel like I found my way again with ONE Championship. I can respect my opponents, and I can go in and fight like a man. I know my lifelong martial arts journey will be truly appreciated here.”