As the countdown to January 24, 2025, continues, the anticipation for Estupinan vs. Ghazali only grows
This battle of young superstars has all the ingredients for a classic Muay Thai showdown: skill, heart, and the hunger to prove themselves on the world stage.
Fans should prepare for a war, as both fighters are ready to leave everything in the ring at ONE 170.
This fight is more than just another entry on the card; it’s a moment that could define the future of the flyweight Muay Thai division.
Whether it’s Estupinan’s relentless aggression or Ghazali’s tactical brilliance that prevails, the world will be watching.
Johan Estupinan’s journey in ONE Championship is still in its early stages, but his performances thus far have hinted at a fighter destined for greatness.
Whether it’s his quick finishes, his ability to adapt, or his indomitable spirit, Estupinan has all the qualities needed to leave a lasting legacy in the sport.
Johan Estupinan’s story is far from over, and the best is yet to come.
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Johan Estupinan vs. Johan Ghazali: The Showdown
The world of Muay Thai is set to witness a high-octane clash between two young prodigies, Johan Estupinan and Johan Ghazali, at ONE 170 on January 24, 2025.1
This highly anticipated fight pits undefeated Colombian dynamo Estupinan against Malaysian-American teenage sensation Ghazali. As the two prepare to lock horns, fans can expect nothing less than a thrilling spectacle.
Estupinan’s fighting style is characterized by his explosive power and unrelenting pace. He excels in closing the distance and delivering punishing combinations, often overwhelming his opponents with sheer ferocity.
His nickname, “Panda Kick,” reflects his ability to land precision strikes, particularly his devastating kicks.
The Journey to ONE 170
The announcement of the fight electrified the Muay Thai community. At just 22 years old, Johan Estupinan has already carved out a reputation as a formidable force, earning the nickname “Panda Kick” for his precision and devastating striking.
His opponent, Johan Ghazali, though only 18, has shown maturity and skill beyond his years, proving himself as one of the division’s brightest stars.
Ghazali, on the other hand, employs a more calculated approach. His ability to adapt mid-fight and exploit his opponents’ weaknesses has been key to his success. Known for his sharp footwork and pinpoint accuracy, Ghazali has the tools to counter Estupinan’s aggression effectively.
The Build-Up: Social Media Hype
ONE Championship added fuel to the fire with an Instagram post announcing the fight, captioned:
“Clash of PHENOMS ⚔️ Malaysian-American teenage prodigy Johan Ghazali battles unbeaten Colombian spark plug Johan Estupinan in a flyweight Muay Thai firefight on January 24 at ONE 170!”
The post generated significant buzz, with fans and fighters alike weighing in on the matchup. Estupinan’s passionate response further amplified the excitement, as he declared himself ready for a “war.”
Johan Estupinan: The Unbeaten Colombian Spark Plug
Estupinan enters the fight with an unblemished professional record. His rise in the sport has been nothing short of meteoric, showcasing a blend of speed, power, and relentless aggression that has left his opponents reeling.2
The Colombian star embraces the pressure, as evidenced by his bold statement on social media:
“Yesss 😁 I love fighting and I’m ready for this war, I love to give this great show, and we will take the victory for all my Latin Americans. I love what I do and I’ll show it in the ring.”
For Estupinan, this fight is more than just another step in his career; it’s an opportunity to represent his Latin American roots on the global stage.
The Teenage Phenom
Ghazali, known as “Jojo,” has quickly established himself as a fan favorite with a promotional record of 6-1.
Despite his youth, his impressive performances have demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level.
After suffering his only defeat against Nguyen Tran Duy Nhat in June 2024, Ghazali rebounded with a stunning first-round knockout of Josue Cruz, proving his resilience and hunger to improve.
Both fighters recognize the significance of this matchup. A victory at ONE 170 could catapult the winner into title contention, cementing their status as the future of the flyweight Muay Thai division.
For Estupinan, maintaining his undefeated record is crucial, while Ghazali aims to continue his upward trajectory and solidify his reputation as a teenage prodigy.
Johan Estupinan: Fans’ Reaction
Muay Thai enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating this showdown, with many debating the outcome.3
Will Estupinan’s unrelenting aggression prove too much for Ghazali? Or will the teenage phenom showcase his tactical brilliance and hand Estupinan his first defeat?
Both fighters appear to be in peak mental and physical condition. Estupinan’s confidence is palpable, as he draws motivation from representing his Latin American fans.
Meanwhile, Ghazali remains unfazed by the challenge, displaying the calm demeanor of a seasoned veteran despite his age.
Historical Significance
This fight is more than just a matchup of skill; it represents the new wave of talent in Muay Thai.
Both Estupinan and Ghazali have the potential to become future legends, and their clash at ONE 170 could mark the beginning of a long-standing rivalry.
Experts are divided on the outcome, with some favoring Estupinan’s unbeaten record and explosive power, while others believe Ghazali’s tactical approach and adaptability will give him the edge. Regardless of the winner, the fight promises to be an unforgettable display of Muay Thai excellence.
The outcome of this fight will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of both fighters’ careers. A victory for Estupinan could set him on a path toward championship gold, while a win for Ghazali would solidify his status as a prodigy destined for greatness.
Johan Estupinan’s Meteoric Rise in ONE Championship
Johan Estupinan has emerged as one of the most exciting prospects in the flyweight division of ONE Championship.
The Colombian fighter has built a reputation for his resilience, knockout power, and ability to deliver high-stakes performances.
With each fight, Estupinan inches closer to becoming a legitimate contender for the flyweight Muay Thai world title.
A Thunderous Debut
Estupinan’s journey in ONE Championship began with a bang. In May, he made his promotional debut against Kouta Omori, a seasoned Muay Thai practitioner.
The fight ended in spectacular fashion, with Estupinan securing a 27-second knockout. The quick finish not only introduced him to the global stage but also showcased his explosive striking skills. Fans and analysts alike recognized Estupinan as a rising star to watch in the organization.
Building on his debut victory, Estupinan faced Zafer Sayik in his second promotional fight. This bout required a different approach, as Sayik proved to be a durable and strategic opponent.
Despite the challenge, Estupinan displayed composure and adaptability, earning a unanimous decision win. His ability to adjust his game plan highlighted his growth as a fighter and his readiness for tougher competition.
Johan Estupinan: Overcoming Adversity
Estupinan’s warrior spirit shone brightly at ONE 169, where he faced Sean Climaco. Nicknamed “Panda Kick,” Estupinan faced significant adversity in the first round, suffering two knockdowns.
Many fighters might have crumbled under such pressure, but Estupinan rallied back with determination. In the second round, he delivered a stunning knockout to secure the victory.
The fight against Climaco demonstrated Estupinan’s grit, mental toughness, and finishing ability. It was a defining moment in his career, solidifying his reputation as a fighter who thrives under pressure.
Estupinan’s next challenge comes at ONE 170, where he will face Johan Ghazali, a highly-touted teenage prospect. Scheduled to take place in January 2025 at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand, this fight is a pivotal moment in both fighters’ careers.
Ghazali, known for his exceptional speed and creativity, represents a significant step up in competition for Estupinan. The matchup pits Estupinan’s power and experience against Ghazali’s youthful energy and technical precision. Whoever emerges victorious will establish themselves as a serious contender in the flyweight division.
Johan Estupinan: Practice
Johan Estupinan shared video of himself and his brother’s last minute practice before the upcoming UFC match.
View this post on Instagram
The Road to the Flyweight Muay Thai World Title
- With each fight, Estupinan has inched closer to the top of the flyweight division. His combination of striking power, resilience, and adaptability makes him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division.
- A win against Johan Ghazali would position him as a legitimate threat to the reigning champion and set the stage for a potential title shot in the near future.
- Estupinan’s journey has resonated with fans across the globe. His dynamic fighting style and inspiring comebacks have made him a beloved figure in the sport.
- As a representative of Colombia, Estupinan also brings attention to the growing talent pool in South American combat sports.
- ONE 170 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting events of the year, featuring a stacked card with high-stakes matchups.
- The event will be broadcast live and free for North American and Canadian viewers with an active Amazon Prime Video subscription, providing fans with easy access to watch Estupinan’s highly anticipated bout.
- While Estupinan’s rise has been meteoric, the path ahead is fraught with challenges. The flyweight division in ONE Championship is stacked with talented fighters, each with unique skills and styles. Estupinan’s ability to continue evolving and refining his game will be crucial as he climbs the rankings.
