“I was expecting it” - Johan Ghazali envisioned getting bonus-winning knockout finish over Josue Cruz
Teen phenom Johan Ghazali fully expected to get the knockout and a $50,000 bonus at ONE 168: Denver.
Determined to climb back into the win column in The Mile High City, 'Jojo' did exactly that with an impressive buzzer-beating KO against Mexican slugger Josue Cruz in front of a raucous crowd at Ball Arena. Following the win, Ghazali was handed a 50k bonus courtesy of ONE Championship Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong.
Speaking with Alex Wendling not long after his sixth win inside the Circle, Johan Ghazali was confident that he'd pick up the win and a stack of cash in The Mile High City.
"Honestly, I was expecting it," Ghazali admitted. "I would be lying if I say I wasn't expecting it. The whole fight camp I was training to get the knockout. And I knew if I get the knockout, I'll get the bonus."
Since making his promotional debut last year, 'Jojo' earned five big finishes and believes he's ready for a step up in competition.
Could we see Johan Ghazali test himself against Denis Puric next?
Not long after seeing his hand raised in The Mile High City, Johan Ghazali already had a name in mind for when he steps back onto martial arts' biggest global stage.
"I want to fight Denis Puric," Ghazali said during the post-fight press conference. "He's a good fighter, he won't run, he's strong, he's been in the game for quite some time, and I'm sure it'll be a good fight."
Puric is considered to be one of the most exciting fighters in the art of eight limbs—a true scrapper who pushes the pace and hits with the force of a sledgehammer.
A bout between the two generational superstars would certainly be an exciting watch for fight fans around the world. Unfortunately, 'The Bosnian Menace' isn't entirely sold on the idea.
"He's a kid. This guy needs a lot of work to do to get up to where we are," Puric told SCMP MMA. "We've been fighting legends for years. This guy just comes in and tries to get a spot."
Do you want to see Ghazali vs. Puric or does 'Jojo' have more work to do before he gets a crack at the battle-tested veteran?
If you missed any of the action, ONE Championship fans in the United States and Canada can watch the ONE 168: Denver replay on demand via Amazon Prime Video.