Fresh after his impressive debut, young Malaysian Muay Thai fighter Muhammad Johan Ghazali Zulfikar continues to deliver knockout blows, leaving his opponents dazed and confused.
At the ONE Championship event in Bangkok on May 26, the 16-year-old Malaysian dynamo triumphed once again, sending his 24-year-old adversary, Tai Sor Jor Piek Uthai, a two-time Lumpinee Stadium Muay Thai World Champion, crashing to the mat in a complete knockout.
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With the same left hook and right overhand combo that propelled him to a 16-second knockout victory in February, Johan seized the opportunity to replicate his previous success.
Eyes on the prize
Even after an exhilarating match, Johan paid tribute to his unwavering supporters – his parents – for their unyielding encouragement over the past six years. He also thanked his coach, Addy Singpayak, for keeping his training on the right track.
Johan’s victory also earned him a bonus of THB350,000 (RM46,000) but the young fighter now has his heart set on winning the championship belt and securing the prestigious USD100,000 (RM460,553) contract that accompanies it.
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Speaking to the elated crowd after his triumph, Johan said, “I knew the blood was flowing, and the fight could have been halted at any moment. So, I gave it my all to ensure a knockout.”
Besides the crowd that cheered him on IRL, news of Johan’s latest victory caught the attention of avid Muay Thai fans across the digital realm.
A dedicated Twitter kickboxing fan account exclaimed, “16-year-old Johan Ghazali does it again! A one-hitter quitter sends Tai crashing to the canvas in the final round. The future looks dazzling for this Malaysian fighter.”
The official Instagram of ONE Championship also chimed in, asking the burning question, “Johan Ghazali refused to leave it to the judges! What’s next for the 16-year-old striking prodigy?”
Despite facing a taunting opponent and sporting a head wound that bled more than a broken heart, the indomitable teenager stayed unfazed.
In a sport where perseverance and skill collide, Johan Ghazali continues to dazzle, leaving opponents thunderstruck and fans hungry for more. Will this rising star shine even brighter in the ring? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain – Johan’s journey to greatness has just begun.
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