17-year-old Johan Ghazali is undoubtedly one of the brightest talents in ONE Championship. Ghazali burst onto the scene in 2023 and showcased his skills against formidable opponents. He won five consecutive fights before finally getting beaten in his last fight against Nguyen Tran Duy Nhat. However, the teenage sensation has moved on from his first loss and is looking forward to his upcoming challenge. 

Ghazali will be taking on Josue Cruz in the upcoming ONE 168 event in Denver on U.S. primetime on Friday, September 6. Although the Mexican has yet to register his first victory in the promotion, Ghazali believes he must be at his best against the veteran. He has also decided to try a few more tricks which he shared while speaking to the South China Morning Post. 

Johan Ghazali reveals some of the tricks he will be using at ONE 168 

Since making his debut at the world’s largest martial arts organization, Ghazali’s relentless fighting style and unwavering confidence have impressed fight fans. However, after his last defeat, the teenager has decided to add a few more weapons to his arsenal. While striking has always been his biggest asset, ‘Jojo’ believes it will not be enough against  Cruz. The Mexican might not have lived up to expectations yet in the promotion, but his past record shows he is capable of winning big fights.  

During his recent interview with South China Morning Post, the 17-year-old shared his plan for the fight. He said, “(I want to) showcase my skills, you know? I’m known for my punches but in this fight, I am planning to do a few other stuff. Use more of my legs, elbows you know. Mix it up a bit.” Ghazali will indeed need to be at his best against the Mexican, who is now eyeing his first victory. Talking about his last fight, the teenager went the full distance against the Vietnamese fighter Nguyen Tran Duy Nhat. This was the first time that Ghazali’s striking prowess had little effect on his opponent as the savvy Vietnamese athlete avoided the teenager’s most damaging shots.

After failing to impress the judges the last time, Ghazali would now be hoping for a knockout victory. Talking about their run in ONE Championship, the pair have had very different starts so far. Let us take a look at what the fans can expect when these two collide in Denver. 

Who do you think will win at ONE 168: Denver between the two?

‘Jojo’ went on a rampage when he amassed five consecutive victories after making his debut in 2023. But he will now have to dig deep against an opponent who previously held a record of 17-0 previously before moving to the world’s largest martial arts organization. Ghazali respects his opponent a lot and made it clear that he is not taking his opponent lightly at all. The teenager believes that anything is possible during a fight therefore, there is no place of casualness in his preparation. Cruz, on the other hand, will be desperate to register his first victory in ONE Championship and believes his ‘never say die’ attitude will help in his upcoming clash.  

During a recent interview with ONE, the 28-year-old pointed out as to how his father played a massive role in shaping up his career. He said, “My dad has always supported me. He always told me that I’d be able to become a professional fighter because I had the abilities to dedicate myself to the craft, and that he’d always support me so that I could accomplish my dreams and goals.” His next goal is to become the first champion from Mexico, but he will first have to go past the challenge of Johan Ghazali. 

Do you think Josue Cruz can register his first victory at ONE:168 against Johan Ghazali? Let us know about it in the comments below.