Mexico’s Tabares stunned by Sarawak’s Muay Thai prodigy Jojo’s power, admits punches stronger than Muay Thai king Rodtang

Jojo (left) KO-ed his opponent Tabares in 36-seconds. Photo credit: Muhammad Johan ‘Jojo’ Ghazali Zulfikar (Instagram)

By Ashley Sim

KUCHING, Dec 12: In a shocking revelation following his swift defeat in the ONE Fight Night 17, WBC Muay Thai International champion Edgar Tabares from Mexico has admitted that the punches of Sarawak’s Muay Thai sensation, Muhammad Johan ‘Jojo’ Ghazali Zulfikar, were more formidable than ONE flyweight Muay Thai champion Rodtang ‘The Ironman’ Jitmuangnon from Thailand.

Jojo made an impressive debut in his US Primetime US ONE Championship fight against Tabares at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on Dec 9.

Tabares was swiftly knocked down by Jojo’s powerful knockout (KO) body blow in just 36 seconds.

Jojo, who is 17-years-old this year and fights for Rentap Muay Thai Gym in Kuching, knocked out Tabares in the first round with a powerful head-body combination.

Watch the video here.

Tabares, 29, who had just lost to Jojo, went live on Facebook on Dec 9 for an impromptu post-match commentary while strolling through the city.

Initially addressing his audience in Latin, the scene took a lively turn as Tabares encountered fans, prompting a spontaneous switch to English.

As Tabares interacted with fans, the conversation naturally steered toward his recent bout with Jojo. Sharing insights into the match, he highlighted Jojo’s knockout punch that, despite landing near his heart, felt as if it had reached his stomach.

He proceeded to lift his shirt, revealing the bruises on his stomach resulting from the punch.

Despite the defeat, Tabares couldn’t help but acknowledge Jojo’s prowess. Comparing him to ONE flyweight Muay Thai champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon, Tabares admitted that Jojo’s punches were more formidable.

Reflecting on the fight, he emphasiszed, “He’s a very strong boy. I have to say he hits harder than Rodtang. I don’t feel Rodtang’s punches like him.”

When questioned by a fan about Jojo’s potential as a superstar, Tabares responded without hesitation, “Yeah, absolutely”.

Praising Jojo’s power, skill, and endurance, Tabares expressed hope that the emerging talent would remain humble and successful, bringing pride to the country. — DayakDaily