17-year-old Malaysian teenage sensation 'Jojo' Johan Ghazali is coming off the first setback of his professional fighting career, so he's making sure he is careful enough not to underestimate his upcoming opponent.
Ghazali is set to face Mexican standout 'Tuzo' Josue Cruz and although the Rentap Muaythai Gym representative is coming in as the perceivable favorite in this matchup, he won't take his foe lightly -- even if he's still planning to go for the quick knockout.
Speaking to the South China Morning Post in a recent interview, Ghazali shared his thoughts on his next fight.
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'Jojo' said:
"I hope so [to get a knockout]. That’s the plan. 50 G’s, that’s the plan. The truth is, he’s 28, he’s a decade older than me. I’m sure he has more experience than me. To underestimate him would be wrong. I don’t underestimate anyone."
'Jojo' Johan Ghazali is set to lock horns with 'Tuzo' Josue Cruz of Mexico in a three-round flyweight Muay Thai contest. The two do battle at ONE 168: Denver, which broadcasts live from the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado on Friday, Sept. 6.
Fans in the United States and Canada can catch all the action live and absolutely free on Amazon Prime Video. Those who want to watch in-stadium can secure tickets via Ticketmaster. Limited seats are available.
Johan Ghazali has a surprise in store at ONE 168: "Something that fans have never seen before"
'Jojo' Johan Ghazali plans on showcasing a completely different facet of his game against 'Tuzo' Josue Cruz at ONE 168: Denver.
The 17-year-old is known for his raw power and unbridled aggression. But Ghazali says he wants to impress with something new.
'Jojo' told ONE Championship:
"I want to do the work with my hands, pressure him, break his defense, and have fun. But who knows, there could be a head kick or something that fans have never seen before."
Stay tuned to Sportskeeda MMA for all the latest news and updates surrounding ONE 168: Denver as it happens.