Rotterdam witnessed a night of unparalleled combat sports drama as GLORY 104 unfolded, delivering a spectacle filled with title changes, unexpected tournament advancements, and moments that tested the very spirit of competition.
Khbabez Reclaims Gold in a Five-Round Epic Against Rajabzadeh
The main event lived up to every expectation, pitting Tarik Khbabez against Bahram Rajabzadeh for the vacant GLORY Light Heavyweight world title. From the opening bell, both gladiators embodied the spirit of kickboxing, refusing to yield an inch. Rajabzadeh, “The Golden Wolf,” drew first blood, dropping Khbabez in the initial round – a moment that could have derailed lesser fighters. However, Khbabez, known for his relentless pressure, dug deep, enduring the storm and relentlessly pushing forward. The ensuing four rounds were a masterclass in attrition, a gritty exchange of heavy shots that left fans on the edge of their seats.
Ultimately, the judges rendered a majority decision in favor of Tarik Khbabez, marking a triumphant reclamation of the title he had previously lost. In a post-fight declaration that momentarily stunned the arena, Rajabzadeh announced his retirement. While the immediate aftermath of a close, hard-fought loss often brings emotional pronouncements, one couldn`t help but wonder if this was a genuine farewell or merely the sting of defeat speaking. Only time, and perhaps a well-placed comeback offer, will truly tell if “The Golden Wolf” has indeed hung up his gloves for good.
The Road to Arnhem: Heavyweight Tournament Shocks and Setups
GLORY 104 also served as a crucial stepping stone for the “Last Heavyweight Standing” tournament, with two formidable contenders punching their tickets to the final showdown at COLLISION 8 on December 13th in Arnhem. The heavyweight division, always a hotbed of power and potential, delivered its share of surprises.
France’s Sofian Laidouni emerged as an undeniable dark horse, defying expectations with back-to-back victories. He first overcame the highly-touted tournament favorite, Levi Rigters, in a majority decision that sent ripples through the division. Laidouni then cemented his spot by defeating Nabil Khachab, showcasing a blend of skill and resilience that proved too much for his opponents.
Matching his impressive feat was Serbia’s Milos Cvjeticanin. Cvjeticanin demonstrated remarkable composure and power, securing decisive wins over Alin Nechita and his compatriot Rade Opacic. His path to the final was marked by dominant performances, proving he is a serious contender for the coveted title.
These two heavyweights, Laidouni and Cvjeticanin, now prepare for COLLISION 8, where they will battle it out in the GelreDome for the ultimate “Last Heavyweight Standing” honor. The stage is set for a monumental clash.
Under Card Highlights and a Questionable Display of Sportsmanship
Beyond the main events, GLORY 104 delivered other noteworthy performances. Berjan Peposhi diligently advanced in the Last Featherweight Standing tournament, outpointing Aitor Ibanez with a solid display of technical prowess. Meanwhile, Miguel Trindade put on a dominant show against late replacement Halil Kutukcu, securing a comfortable unanimous decision victory.
However, not all wins were forged through sheer combat. The middleweight bout between Sergej Braun and Iliass Hammouche concluded under rather… unusual circumstances. Following a knockdown, Hammouche, in a display that raised more than a few eyebrows, declined to continue, prompting the referee to issue a disqualification. While every fighter`s well-being is paramount, such an abrupt cessation, particularly when accompanied by apparent protest rather than incapacitation, leaves an indelible mark on the narrative of sportsmanship. One might call it a rather spirited, albeit ill-advised, interpretation of competitive quitting.
Looking Ahead: COLLISION 8 Awaits
GLORY 104, held at the RTM Stage in Rotterdam, proved to be another chapter in the promotion`s storied history, offering both classic encounters and unexpected twists. The event successfully built anticipation for COLLISION 8: Last Heavyweight Standing Final, which promises an explosive conclusion to the heavyweight tournament in Arnhem on December 13th. Fans of kickboxing can mark their calendars for another night of high-stakes action as GLORY continues to deliver.
Murray Blackwood