“Pressure Him Until He Breaks” – Johan Ghazali Reveals How He Plans to Make a Statement in US Primetime Debut Against Edgar Tabares

This Friday, at ONE Fight Night 17: Kryklia vs. Roberts on Prime Video, teenage prodigy Johan “Jojo” Ghazali will make his much-anticipated U.S. Primetime debut when he battles former World Title challenger Edgar Tabares in an intriguing flyweight Muay Thai clash.

Slated to go down in front of a raucous Bangkok crowd at the iconic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, that matchup will be the stiffest test of the Malaysian-American sensation’s still-young professional career. But after the incredible four-fight run at ONE Friday Fights that earned him a coveted six-figure contract with the world’s largest martial arts organization, Ghazali is loaded with confidence and momentum.

Edgar Tabares does not intimidate Johan Ghazali

While he respects Tabares – Mexico’s first-ever WBC Muay Thai International Champion – the 17-year-old says he isn’t overly impressed with his foe’s skill set:

“Honestly, I don’t see much from him. I think he has a low kick, and that’s about it. I don’t see anything that will trouble me, really, but that doesn’t mean I’m underestimating him. The level of fighters here in ONE Championship is really high, so I’m prepared to go out there and do my best.  

“Again, I don’t think he has too much power, but at the same time, I know I can’t be too overconfident because, in the 4-ounce gloves, everyone has the ability to knock people out.”

Training out of Rentap Muaythai Gym, Ghazali has not only established himself as one of the sport’s fastest-rising stars but also a proven finisher. He has scored a trio of highlight-reel knockouts through his four fights in ONE, including a stunning 16-second finish in his promotional debut.

What is in store for Johan Ghazali in this fight ?

Naturally, “Jojo” will be hunting for the knockout – and a US$50,000 performance bonus – against the ultra-tough Tabares. He spoke about his game plan on December 8:

“My game plan is to pressure him until he breaks. Then just pressure more and get the knockout, whatever way it comes. I won’t be too fussy, but I’ll definitely be coming for it. Of course, I would prefer an early finish. However, if I don’t get it early, I’ll just keep looking for it,” he said. 

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“It would be insane to beat my 16-second KO, just going home with no pain. And it would be sweet to get the US$50,000 bonus too – big money! I’ll be grateful if I do get it.”