Johan Ghazali is ready to face Josue Cruz at ONE 168: Denver and fans can’t wait to see the 17-year-old rising star in action. Known as ‘Jojo,’ Ghazali has quickly become one of the brightest talents in the promotion, aiming for big success in MMA. But it’s not just fighters who inspire him; he’s also a huge fan of Cristiano Ronaldo. In a recent interview, Ghazali shared that he admires Ronaldo’s relentless work ethic and dedication, qualities he strives to bring into his own fighting career. As Ghazali steps into the cage, he’s channeling that same determination to make his mark in the sport.

The host asked Ghazali, “Who’s the one star in the sport that you may have been inspired by or if? I know you are a Ronaldo fan. Ghazali was quick to accept that he, indeed, was a Ronaldo fan. However, he pointed out why he likes him and said, “Absolutely Cristiano Ronaldo, you know, because I feel like he represents hard work beats talent, you know. No matter how talented other people are, as long as you can work hard, you’ll succeed.” Let us take a look at the upcoming fight of the youngster. 

Johan Ghazali is looking to walk past the challenge of Josue Cruz at ONE 168: Denver 

‘Jojo’ will get a chance to get back to winning ways when he takes on Cruz in the upcoming event in Denver. The teenager took the promotion by storm since making his debut in 2023. Despite competing against some of the world’s finest athletes, Ghazali won his first five fights and impressed everyone with his performances. However, his dream run ended in his last fight against Vietnamese veteran Nguyen Tran Duy Nhat. Their fight went the full distance, with Duy Nhat frustrating ‘Jojo’ with a methodical approach in both offense and defense. He will now have the chance to return to the win column against Mexico’s Josue Cruz in a highly exciting clash. 

The Mexican has yet to shine in the promotion, failing to register a win in his first two bouts. Both of his fights ended via knockout, but the Mexican is confident he can turn things around in one fight. After all, ‘Tuzo’ held an impressive record of 17-0 before taking his talents to the world’s largest martial arts organization.  

The teenager understands the threats his opponent possesses and makes it clear that he is not taking him lightly.

While speaking to South China Morning Post he said, “I don’t underestimate anyone. I have been training hard. I came out here to Denver early to acclimatize to just get ready. Because I know that in ONE Championship in these four-ounce gloves, anything can happen. So I’m ready 100%.” Cruz is also looking forward to his upcoming clash against the sensational teenager. Although his recent run in the promotion is not that impressive, the 28-year-old is confident of winning the clash. Let us take a look at what the Mexican feels about the clash. 

Josue Cruz is eyeing his first victory in the ONE Championship against Johan Ghazali 

Josue Cruz is prepared to meet fire with fire when he takes on Johan Ghazali in Denver. His next fight comes at a time when the Mexican youngster is struggling with his form. Despite having all the potential, ‘Tuzo’ still has to prove he belongs on the global stage. 

While speaking to ONE before his third fight in the promotion, Cruz promised that fans would see a much-improved performance from him. ‘Tuzo’ feels Ghazali’s fighting style is very aggressive, and the Mexican is willing to take the challenge head-on.  

He said, “Johan is a strong opponent. He continues to grow after each fight despite his age. I see him as a big opportunity because I know that if I beat him, bigger things will follow. It’s a great opportunity for me and that’s why I’m training hard. I know it’ll be a war.” Cruz also pointed out the changes he is planning to make in his game against the teenager. He clarified that he learned from his last two fights and said, “My mentality is stronger now. Sometimes you think that losses will set you back, but they’ve matured me as a fighter. They’ve made me realize how I need to fight and what I need to change. I’ve made sure to make some changes in both my mental and physical training. ” 

Who do you think will win the fight at ONE 168: Denver? Let us know about it in the comments below.