Jonathan “The General” Haggerty knows what it’s like to be at the top of the world, having captured the ONE flyweight muay Thai world championship merely three years ago.

However, despite a rapidly growing fan base and having established himself as a true force in the promotion’s muay Thai ranks, the 25-year-old chooses to remain grounded. 

After all, he experienced the struggles of growing up in the Wharf Road area of London, and he knows there is a very thin line between good and bad.

“It was working-class and multicultural, a bit rough and ready, but I knew everyone around there,” he recalled.

“We just did what any kid would do. Sometimes we were a bit mischievous. But usually, we’d just be out playing football.”

Thankfully for Haggerty, his dad – a martial artist, himself – forced him and his younger brother Freddie to participate in combat sports lessons from a young age. Thanks to that push, both emerged as exciting young talents on the muay Thai circuit in his native England.

But “The General” admits that not every kid is fortunate enough to share a path like his, and with the growing influence of social media on the younger generation, the striking dynamo is growing worried.

“When I was younger, you could play out on the street and do what you wanted to, but it is dangerous nowadays,” he said.

“I think kids are just following trends. Even things like social media can have a big effect – people (are) trying to be somebody they are not and looking up to people that they shouldn’t be looking up to.”

With his love for combat sports, “The General” is looking to impact the youth of his community. 

He admits this has been a challenge, but as the first British athlete to capture a ONE world title, Haggerty knows he can personify what hard work and focus could bring to those he wants to help.

“I know sometimes they really don’t want to be there, but you need to push them, and show them some warmth and attention to make them feel comfortable,” he said.

“You need to get in a gym, as I did. Get ambitious. Get a goal rather than following people. Have some positive role models.”

Giving back to the community is something that is very much apparent at the gym where he hones his craft. 

Team Underground and Knowlesy Academy are where Haggerty spent years transforming himself from a young ambitious kid to a proven force inside the ONE Circle, and he wants it to be a place where the youngsters of his community can come to learn and focus.

When he isn’t preparing himself for competition, “The General” is on the mats, coaching local teens and giving them valuable gems of advice.

It is not an easy path to take. Success in martial arts requires a lot of hard work and sacrifice, but the British fighter is willing to give his time to those youngsters who want it.

To Haggerty, the equation is straightforward – as long as the kids are ready to devote their time in the gym, he will guide them through the ups and downs of their respective journeys.

“Come in and be dedicated, and we’ll show you the right path. Martial arts could change your life if you stick to it and you dedicate yourself,” he said.