GLORY Kickboxing is facing significant backlash from its roster due to its overwhelming emphasis on the heavyweight division. This strategy has prompted multiple champions and promising athletes to leave the promotion, citing insufficient opportunities in other weight classes. Interviews with trainers and fighters reveal a growing concern about the promotion`s direction and future.
The core of this discontent revolves around the `Last Heavyweight Standing` tournament series. This multi-event competition, culminating in a December final, has provided extensive visibility for heavyweights, effectively sidelining other divisions. While the tournament winner is slated to challenge Rico Verhoeven in 2026, many within the sport believe this exclusive focus comes at too great a cost to the wider talent pool and the development of varied divisions.
Prominent trainer Said El Badaoui, coach to fighters like Jamal Ben Saddik and formerly Badr Hari, felt compelled to voice his concerns for his athletes.
“Fighters often hesitate to speak out, but I will advocate for my team. While I prefer not to criticize GLORY, as it’s a strong organization, I am willing to be the voice for change right now.”
This mounting frustration has already resulted in several high-profile departures. Tyjani Beztati, a six-time lightweight champion, has transitioned to MMA, and four-time welterweight champion Endy Semeleer feels neglected by the organization. Even promising talent Mohamed Touchassie, once touted as the `new Badr Hari,` is leaving due to a dwindling number of fight opportunities.
El Badaoui offered an even stronger critique of the tournament, stating:
“In my opinion, many of the tournament fights are substandard. They are even recruiting retired fighters just to complete the fight cards, which undermines genuine kickboxing talent. This reflects a short-sighted approach, and as a consequence, we are currently losing a significant amount of talent.”
The trend of departures has also impacted ARJ Gym. Head coach Maikel Polanen, who trains Endy Semeleer, Younes Smaili, and heavyweight Levi Rigters, indicates that GLORY`s current strategy has compelled him to explore opportunities with other promotions.
“While I haven`t entirely closed the door on GLORY, for the time being, we are not actively pursuing opportunities there for my fighters,” Polanen clarified. “With GLORY, athletes earn some income, but it`s not enough for financial independence. In contrast, success in MMA can offer that. I wouldn`t call GLORY a bad organization, but they are hindering careers, and that is my primary concern.”
Even Levi Rigters, a heavyweight who benefits from the current spotlight, is exploring other avenues. Polanen revealed that Rigters has already begun MMA training, suggesting he might view GLORY as a temporary platform.
“Our goal is for him to win the heavyweight tournament and potentially challenge for the title once more, but after that, his journey with GLORY might conclude,” Polanen stated. “Fighters like Levi are not just kickboxers; they are versatile athletes.”
Mohamed Touchassie, on the other hand, cited a significant lack of communication as a critical factor in his departure. He expressed:
“I felt my career was on hold at GLORY. They repeatedly told me they would `see what`s possible.` I would then anticipate a fight, only to discover through Instagram that I wasn`t on the card. This is an unacceptable way to treat fighters. Although GLORY is a major brand, for me, that chapter is now closed. I`m no longer swayed by their empty promises.”
Polanen`s deeper worry concerns the lasting impact on kickboxing as a whole. He warned:
“Unless changes are made, the sport risks being undermined. I train teenagers who aspire to compete in GLORY someday, and that dream should not be shattered.”
GLORY Responds
GLORY CEO Marshall Zelaznik recognized the organization`s current emphasis on heavyweights but maintained that other divisions would still have opportunities. He highlighted the participation of numerous light heavyweights in the tournament, though this offers scant reassurance to athletes in different weight classes or those unwilling to compete against significantly larger opponents.
“We extend our best wishes to departing fighters and will continue to monitor their careers. Like our fans, we seek dynamic athletes. Despite a limited number of events, there`s always space for compelling fighters. For 2026, our priority is to retain our spectacular talent and discover new athletes. If a fighter is exceptional, we are committed to signing them and ensuring they remain active.”
Oliver Croft