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Teen phenom Johan Ghazali expects his next opponent to fold under the pressure.
After suffering his first setback inside the Circle, Johan Ghazali is ready to bounce back in a big way. He'll get that opportunity on Friday, September 6 when ONE Championship makes its long-awaited return to The Mile High City for a loaded ONE 168: Denver card, emanating from Ball Arena.
There, 'Jojo' will square off with Mexican slugger Josue Cruz in a fight that could prove to be a pivotal moment for the budding superstars.
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Thus far, Ghazali is 5-1 under the ONE banner with four of his victories coming by way of knockout.
Determined to score yet another highlight-reel finish, 'Jojo' believes the key will be to bring the pressure early and often against his explosive opposition.
“I think it’s going to be me putting the pressure on him, trying to score, trying to find that knockout, to be honest," Ghazali told ONE Championship. "That’s all I can think about now.”
Josue Cruz motivated by his father's teaching ahead of clash with Johan Ghazali
Making his third appearance inside the Circle, Josue Cruz is ready to finally break through and earn his first win on martial arts' biggest global stage after coming up short in back-to-back appearances.
To do that — especially against such a tough opponent like Johan Ghazali — Cruz plans to lean on the teachings of his father.
“My greatest motivation has always been my dad," Cruz said in an interview with ONE. "He was always a great example for me. I always watched him work and noticed how he never stopped providing for our family. I think he’s the best example that I could’ve ever gotten as a young kid."
He added:
“In me, he instilled a ‘never quit’ mentality. The idea of never giving up, always fighting, and always accomplishing your goals through sacrifice has helped me the most when fighting and being able to accomplish all the goals I’ve set.”
Who leaves The Centennial State with their hand raised?
Follow this link for tickets for ONE 168: Denver on September 6 at Ball Arena.
