‘Jojo’ Ghazali to face off against Japan’s Shimon in Tokyo

KUCHING (April 1): Malaysia’s Muay Thai sensation Muhammad Johan ‘Jojo’ Ghazali is set to return to the ring for a challenge against Japan’s Shimon Yoshinari at the inaugural ONE Samurai 1 event at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo on April 29.

The highly anticipated bout was officially confirmed by ONE Championship via its social media platforms on Tuesday.

Shimon enters the fight as a rising star in Japan, boasting a perfect 4-0 record in ONE Championship, including two victories secured via technical knockout.

The 21-year-old will also enjoy home ground advantage and is training alongside renowned atomweight world champion Nadaka Yoshinari, highlighting the high level of preparation and quality within his camp.

His technical proficiency and counter striking skills are expected to pose a formidable test for the young Malaysian.

For Johan, the bout represents a timely platform to further cement his standing among the world’s elite Muay Thai practitioners.

The teenage fighter currently holds an enviable record of eight wins and three losses in ONE Championship.

In his most recent outing, he displayed composure and aggression to defeat Myanmar’s Ye Yint Naung via a unanimous decision.

The victory has provided Johan with strong momentum as he prepares for what is expected to be one of the toughest tests of his young career.

The inaugural ONE Samurai 1 event is also set to feature a blockbuster rematch between Muay Thai superstars Rodtang Jitmuangnon of Thailand and Japan’s Takeru Segawa, which is expected to be the main attraction of the evening.

Malaysian combat fans will be looking forward to another explosive show as Johan aims to raise the national flag high on the international stage.