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Undefeated middleweight Donte Johnson has revealed that former UFC light heavyweight champion Jamahal Hill has become one of the most important people in his career as he prepares for his next UFC appearance.
Johnson (8-0 MMA, 2-0 UFC) has been training alongside Hill since moving to Las Vegas, and the relationship quickly evolved from mutual respect into a close friendship. The 27-year-old admitted he had admired Hill long before they met and now considers him family.
"It all happened for a reason," Johnson said. "I've always respected Jamahal and studied the way he fights. He's from Wisconsin, I'm from Michigan, so there was an instant connection. When I arrived in Vegas, he introduced himself, and since then we've spent a lot of time together. He's taught me so much about the fight game, especially movement, footwork and the rhythm inside the cage."
Johnson added that the bond extends beyond training.
"I've met his family, and I truly see him as a brother. We can always rely on each other. I'm incredibly grateful for everything that's happened. To train with Jamahal Hill and spar with guys like Sean Strickland less than a year after signing with the UFC is something I never imagined."
Learning from his first decision victory
Johnson made an impressive UFC debut in November by submitting Sedriques Dumas in the second round before defeating Cody Brundage by split decision in March. Although the victory ended his perfect finishing record, he says Hill helped him see the bigger picture.
"At first it bothered me a little because I wanted to keep finishing everyone," Johnson admitted. "But Jamahal told me something I'll never forget: 'If you want people to laugh, tell them exactly how everything is going to happen.' I didn't get the finish, but I proved I can handle a full fight and answered a lot of questions about my game. Every fight is a chance to improve."
Ready for the biggest opportunity yet
Johnson will compete on a numbered UFC pay-per-view card for the first time when he faces Eric McConico (11-4-1 MMA, 2-2 UFC) in a middleweight bout at UFC 330 on Aug. 15 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.
The unbeaten prospect believes his development is only beginning.
"I'm improving every single day, and that's not going to change," Johnson said. "I'll keep working, keep trusting God and keep doing my part. If I continue showing up and putting in the work, I'll keep getting better."
