"The best thing that could ever happen" - Johan Ghazali says recent setback gives him renewed vigor heading into Denver fight

Johan Ghazali may have suffered his first defeat under the ONE Championship banner last month, but he believes that setback will only spur him to greater heights.

The Malaysian-American teenage phenom returns to the global stage in a guaranteed barnburner flyweight Muay Thai fixture against Josue Cruz at ONE 168: Denver on September 6. The card marks the promotion's on-ground return to North America and broadcasts live in U.S. primetime from the Ball Arena.

After racking up a pristine 5-0 run in the promotion, the Rentap Muay Thai Gym star was widely expected to continue his fine form against Vietnamese veteran Nguyen Tran Duy Nhat at ONE 167.

Unfortunately, results didn't go the Malaysian-American's way way as his opponent secured unanimous decision win after three entertaining rounds.

Though initially upset with the outcome, the 17-year-old admits it was a much-needed experience, one that helped him ensure he returns with a better all-around arsenal when he steps inside the circle in Denver.

Speaking exclusively to Sportskeeda MMA, the Sarawak-based fighter shared:

"Look out for my best version. I think that loss was the best thing that could ever happen to me, you know. I learned a lot, and I've fixed a lot of where I was lacking."

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Johan Ghazali eyes Josue Cruz KO in Denver

In a perfect world, Johan Ghazali would like to close out his Josue Cruz fight in trademark fashion - a knockout.

'Jojo', in the same interview, talked about his goal come ONE 168: Denver:

"I hope I do my best. I hope, at least, like all my fights, I will get a KO. For this fight, I hope to get one in the second round."

Follow this link to purchase tickets for ONE 168: Denver on September 6. The spectacle emanates live from the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado.