WFL – War for the Crown

WAR FOR THE CROWN: on 3 October, the Lotto Arena will become the battleground for the heavyweights

ANTWERP – Forget an ordinary fight night. On 3 October 2026, the Lotto Arena will host an evening where a single moment, a single punch and a single mistake could be enough to shatter a dream. With War for the Crown, WFL brings a heavyweight spectacle to Antwerp in which only one thing matters: survival and getting closer to the crown.

Sixteen heavyweights. One journey. One crown.

WAR FOR THE CROWN

WAR FOR THE CROWN

That is the essence of War for the Crown.

With this concept, WFL isn’t simply organising a series of matches, but is building a contest in which reputation is no guarantee, strength alone is not enough, and every opponent poses a threat. On 3 October, a new phase of that quest begins in Antwerp.

Names such as Jahfarr Wilnis, Ivan Efimov, Malong Konta, Dexter Suisse, Massinissa Hamail, Jeremy Mercera, André Schmeling, Mikolaj Dyc, Claudio Istrate, Bruno Chavez, Vasile Amaritei, Naim Hebbar, Hamza Ourahou, Ouail Ibn Youssef and Fares Bainine bring together exactly what heavyweight fans come for: stature, explosiveness and the knowledge that a fight is never truly safe.

WAR FOR THE CROWN

WAR FOR THE CROWN

No room for recovery

In a normal match, a fighter can sometimes take their time to get into their stride. Here, things are different.

Anyone competing in a tournament for the crown knows that every round counts. A hard low kick can have consequences later on. A heavy right-hander can change everything. A moment’s hesitation can mean the difference between carrying on and being eliminated.

That’s what makes War for the Crown so dangerous.

Not just for the fighters.

But for any prediction, too.

Because in the heavyweight division, there are no certainties.

The favourite could be knocked out.

The underdog might rise to the occasion.

And one name that’s barely mentioned beforehand might suddenly be on everyone’s lips by the end of the evening.

WAR FOR THE CROWN

WAR FOR THE CROWN

The Lotto Arena won’t have the usual atmosphere

Antwerp has seen some epic battles, but this event brings something different to the table.

A tournament creates excitement even before the first bell rings. Every result changes the narrative. Every winner moves closer to the crown. Every loser sees their journey come to an abrupt end.

That is what the fans at the Lotto Arena are set to experience.

Not just during the matches, but also in between them.

Who will come out on top?

Who will keep a cool head?

Who can cope with the pressure when thousands of eyes are on them?

And above all:

who really dares to believe that the crown is meant for him?

WAR FOR THE CROWN

WAR FOR THE CROWN

Experience versus hunger

The field of competitors includes experienced names, but also heavyweights who are keen to seize their chance on this very stage.

For the established riders, there is a lot at stake. They are expected to deliver.

For the challengers, something different lies in store.

An opportunity.

A victory at the right moment can fast-track a career. A dominant performance can suddenly transform a relatively unknown name into a figure no one can ignore.

That is the beauty of a tournament.

You don’t get a crown handed to you on a plate.

You have to fight for it.

WAR FOR THE CROWN

WAR FOR THE CROWN

Here’s why you’ll want to be there

Some events are the sort you look back on.

Others are the sort you want to have experienced.

War for the Crown has everything it takes to be just such an evening.

A packed arena. International heavyweights. A knockout that could come out of nowhere. A favourite under pressure. An underdog who refuses to step aside.

And hanging over it all is that one question:

who will ultimately come closest to the crown?

On 3 October 2026, the answer will begin to unfold at the Lotto Arena in Antwerp.

Not with words.

Not with predictions.

But with fists.

WAR FOR THE CROWN

WAR FOR THE CROWN

WAR FOR THE CROWN

Sixteen heavyweights. One mission. No second chances.

Knockout News is there. Are you?

This message ONE CROWN, SIXTEEN HEAVYWEIGHTS: WAR BREAKS OUT AT THE LOTTO ARENA ON 3 OCTOBER was first published on KnockOutNieuws.

On Saturday 19 September 2026, De Bloemhof in Aalsmeer will be all about combat sports. NEXTREME MMA returns with its seventh edition, presenting an extensive programme featuring MMA, kickboxing, grappling, youth bouts, a four-man tournament and a title fight.

NEXTREME MMA 7 brings together various disciplines and gives both up-and-coming talent and experienced fighters the chance to prove themselves in the cage. The doors of De Bloemhof open at 2.30 pm, with the programme kicking off at 3.00 pm.

One of the bouts that immediately catches the eye is the fight between Jess van Hunen of Ruthless Fightcompany and Yassine Bouyardan of TUF Dragons. They will face each other in an interim welterweight title fight. With a title at stake, this bout naturally takes on a special significance.

Four-man tournament in the featherweight division

The MMA Featherweight Tournament also promises to be a key part of the evening. Four fighters will have the chance to make their mark: Jamie Jong, Nizami Ghulam, Bas voor den Dag and Souleymanou Adamou. Jamie Jong and Bas voor den Dag will face each other in a highly anticipated clash.

In addition, the fight card features several other interesting MMA bouts. Nicolas Essono and Jesse van der Horst will face each other in the light-heavyweights, whilst Ivan Ognev and Kaj Ritfeld will also go head-to-head in this weight class. In the middleweights, Filip Zubowicz is scheduled to face Marco Zoutendijk.

Also on the programme are Milan van der Raaij vs Dylan Bloomer, Morteza Kazemi vs Sayfulla Irazbiev, Arseni Taktakishvili vs Muslim Terloev, Ersan Dağ vs Sem de Jeu and Sekander Masoud vs Dion Persoon.

Not just MMA

NEXTREME MMA 7 is clearly opting for variety. As well as MMA, there are also kickboxing bouts. Mohamed Ait Daoud takes on Jesse Maars in the lightweight division, whilst Brandon Tegelaar and Daniel Janeczko face off in a super-heavyweight kickboxing bout.

For fans of ground fighting, the programme also features a grappling bout in the under-60-kilogramme division between Radi Akachar and Edgar Liparitjan.

The new generation is also being given a chance to shine. Amongst others, Valentino Meulenhof vs Riyad Mabraki and Abel Middendorp vs D’leh Roerhorst have been announced as youth MMA bouts.

A full afternoon of combat sports in Aalsmeer

With so many different bouts and disciplines, NEXTREME MMA 7 looks set to be an event where there’s something to enjoy throughout the afternoon and evening. From young talents to title aspirations and from kickboxing to grappling: the organisers have put together a wide-ranging programme.

De Bloemhof – Aalsmeer
Saturday 19 September 2026
Doors open: 2.30 pm
Event starts: 3.00 pm
Tickets: www.nextreme-mma.com

www.nextreme-mma.com

This message NEXTREME MMA 7 – 19 September 2026: A martial arts spectacle in Aalsmeer! was first published on KnockOutNieuws.

Knockoutnieuws.be therefore likes to look beyond what happens in the ring. Who brings the fighters together? Who has the network, the overview and the experience to put together match-ups that can captivate the audience from start to finish?

At WFL Utrecht, the tension and spectacle of the bouts were particularly striking. Fighters who gave their all, gave each other little room to manoeuvre and fought for their place and future within the sport. That made us curious about the person behind this matchmaking.

WFL Utrecht

That’s how we came across Patrick Beukema.

Patrick has been active in the world of combat sports for a long time and has experienced and attended many events over the years. As a result, he has not only built up a wealth of experience, but also a wide network of fighters, trainers, gyms, promoters and organisations.

Matchmaking is much more than simply pairing two names against each other. A good matchmaker looks at ability, weight, experience, style, development and, above all, whether a bout can be sportingy interesting and appealing to the public.

It is precisely this overview and knowledge that make someone behind the scenes so valuable.

Chris Baya wins title

But who is Patrick Beukema really, beyond his role as a matchmaker? How did he end up in the world of combat sports? How extensive is his network? What has he experienced over the years? What does he look for when he pairs two fighters against each other? And what role does he still want to play within the sport in the future?

These are precisely the questions that Knockoutnieuws.be intends to explore in more depth shortly.

In an in-depth interview, we’ll get to know Patrick better and try to get to the bottom of everything: not just Patrick Beukema the matchmaker, but above all Patrick Beukema the man behind the scenes of combat sports.

Because sometimes the spectacle in the ring begins long before the first bell has rung.

This message “Patrick Beukema: the man behind the spectacle – Knockoutnieuws sets out to uncover the story behind the matchmaker.” was first published on KnockOutNieuws.

Kickboxing has undergone impressive development over the years. The sport experienced particularly strong international growth in the 1980s and 1990s. Japan played a key role in this, with major events and a strong influence from karate, amongst other disciplines. The Netherlands, too, developed into a major centre for kickboxing during that period and produced many fighters who would later make a name for themselves internationally.

Nevertheless, kickboxing has long had to contend with a negative image. The sport used to be regularly associated with aggression and street violence. However, anyone who is genuinely involved in the world of kickboxing knows that a good gym is all about discipline, respect, self-control, responsibility and perseverance.

For many young people, the gym has also become a place where they find structure and can channel their energy in a positive way. Instead of getting into fights on the streets, they learn their limits within clear rules and under the guidance of trainers. For young people who have a lot of energy or struggle to concentrate, sport can also help to provide structure, focus and self-confidence. Sport can be a valuable source of support in this regard, without replacing professional medical guidance or necessary treatment.

Sharif ben Mabrouk

From beginner to professional top-flight level

Anyone who thinks that a professional kickboxer simply steps into the ring every now and then is underestimating what goes on behind the scenes.

Development often begins at a young age. Through youth competitions and beginner-level training, fighters can progress to the C-class, then the B-class and ultimately the professional A-class.

But reaching that level is only part of the story.

To reach the top and stay there, professional kickboxers train almost every day.

Technical training, sparring, strength training, fitness training, recovery, nutrition and mental preparation are all part of their lives. On top of that come training camps, travelling and competitions. A professional fighter must constantly invest in their body and development, because at international level, even a slight disadvantage can make all the difference.

That requires years of discipline and enormous personal sacrifice.

Sharif Ben Mabrouk: combining elite sport with higher education

Sharif Ben Mabrouk is an example of an athlete who is trying to balance two demanding worlds: higher education and a professional kickboxing career.

Alongside his studies, he continues to invest in his sporting development on a daily basis. He now competes as a professional kickboxer at international events, including at SENSHI in Bulgaria.

For him, kickboxing is not just a passion. It is also a profession that enables him to earn an income and support himself whilst continuing to build on his education and future.

Many students work in the hospitality industry, shops or other sectors after their lessons to pay for their studies and daily living costs. A professional kickboxer can do this in a different way: by training, preparing for weeks on end and ultimately stepping into the ring to earn an income through his sport.

The difference is that behind that single match often lie months of daily preparation.

Sharif ben Mabrouk

Why should kickboxing be treated any differently?

In sports such as football, swimming, athletics and various other disciplines, there are arrangements in place whereby schools and educational institutions take into account students who compete at a high level.

But in kickboxing too, there are students who are pursuing higher education whilst competing at national or international level.

Why should they deserve any less support?

A kickboxer who trains five, six or sometimes seven days a week, competes abroad and, on top of that, is trying to get their degree, is achieving a tremendous feat.

He or she should not be forced to choose between education and elite sport when the two can be combined in a responsible manner.

Sharif ben Mabrouk

Time for full recognition

Modern kickboxing deserves to be judged on what it truly represents today.

It’s not just about fighting.

But also:

discipline, training, respect, self-control, health, ambition and perseverance.

Athletes such as Sharif Ben Mabrouk demonstrate that a professional kickboxer can take both his future and his studies seriously at the same time.

Anyone who wants to reach the very top internationally must perform at their best day in, day out. And once you’re there, you may have to work even harder to stay there.

That is why kickboxing also deserves the same attention and opportunities as other elite sports when it comes to combining education, personal development and a professional sporting career.

Talent and elite sport deserve support — whether that talent is on a football pitch, in a swimming pool, on an athletics track or between the ropes of a kickboxing ring.

This message Fighting for the Top Every Day: Why Kickboxers Deserve More Recognition was first published on KnockOutNieuws.

After a long wait, the moment has finally arrived: Christian Baya is returning to the ring at GLORY.

Christian Baya

On 5 September 2026, the experienced and explosive Baya will make his comeback at GLORY 109 in Rotterdam. There, he’ll face an immediate and interesting challenge against Anwar Ouled-Chaib, winner of House of GLORY and a fighter keen to prove himself amongst the big names in the welterweight division.

For Baya, this bout means more than just a comeback. With his vast experience, explosive style and impressive career, he wants to show that he still belongs at the very top.

Knockoutnieuws heads to Mike’s Gym for an exclusive interview with Christian Baya.

This message Christian Baya makes his comeback at GLORY 109 – Knockout News exclusive to Mike’s Gym was first published on KnockOutNieuws.

Thian vs Bokeme

Tickets for Enfusion Tilburg – Book your tickets here

On 26 September 2026, Tilburg will be completely taken over by top-class international kickboxing. Enfusion is pulling out all the stops with a strong fight card, featuring several big names stepping into the ring for an evening full of speed, power and spectacle.

One of the bouts that is eagerly anticipated is the clash between Thian de Vries and Ulric Bokeme. De Vries is known for his explosive style and high knockout rate, making fireworks all but guaranteed.

Berre Vanduffel vs Jahfaro Gezius

Tickets for Enfusion Tilburg – Book your tickets here

There is also a major title bout on the programme. Berre Vanduffel will take on Jahfaro Gezius for the welterweight title (up to 81 kilograms). Both fighters will thus have the chance to be crowned champion on the Enfusion stage.

In addition, Levi Minkenberg, Jannes Vercaemst, Anouar Afakir and Goudmein, amongst others, will be in action, alongside various international fighters. Enfusion Tilburg therefore promises to be a varied evening featuring talent, experienced top fighters and bouts with high stakes.

The audience can look forward to spectacular combinations, knock-outs, title bouts and excitement from start to finish.

Date: 26 September 2026
Venue: Tilburg
Tickets: available via the official ticket sales channel Tickets for Enfusion Tilburg – Order your tickets here

Would you like to experience this evening live? Then don’t wait too long and secure your place at Enfusion Tilburg.

This message Enfusion Tilburg promises a spectacular show on 26 September – Tickets now on sale was first published on KnockOutNieuws.

A big name is returning to the ring. Jamal ‘The Goliath’ Ben Saddik is leaving his time at GLORY behind and taking on a new challenge with the World Fighting League (WFL).

On Saturday 3 October 2026, Ben Saddik will make his appearance at WFL: War for the Crown, at a special venue: the Lotto Arena in Antwerp. WFL has now officially announced its return to Antwerp.

Jamal Ben Saddik

For Ben Saddik, this marks the start of a new chapter in his impressive career. The heavyweight fought at the highest level for many years and made a name for himself at GLORY. With his height of 2.05 metres and immense punching power, he became one of the best-known heavyweights in international kickboxing.

Now, ‘The Goliath’ is setting his sights on WFL K-1. The fact that he is returning to Antwerp makes the evening all the more special. For Belgian martial arts fans, 3 October is therefore a date to mark in red on the calendar.

Saturday 3 October 2026

Lotto Arena – Antwerp
WFL K-1: War for the Crown
Jamal ‘The Goliath’ Ben Saddik

A new organisation, a new chapter and, once again, a major stage. Jamal Ben Saddik is ready to show Antwerp once more why he goes by the nickname ‘The Goliath’.

This message Jamal Ben Saddik brings his GLORY chapter to a close: ‘The Goliath’ returns to Antwerp on 3 October for WFL K-1 was first published on KnockOutNieuws.

Alvi Dasuyev has reached a significant milestone in his career. In an exclusive interview with Knockoutnieuws, the talented fighter speaks candidly about signing a contract with an American management team. This partnership opens new doors and brings him closer to the world’s largest MMA organisation.

In the interview, Alvi looks back on how the contact with the American management team came about. He explains the discussions that led up to it, why he chose this partnership and what ambitions he hopes to realise in the coming period. His focus is entirely on the next step in his professional career, with the ultimate goal of securing a chance in the UFC.

Alvi Dasuyev

Alvi also discusses his most recent fight in Paris at length. There, he made an immediate impression by forcing his opponent to tap out via submission in the very first round. Despite the convincing victory, the bout was not without consequences. During the fight, he sustained a double orbital fracture, a serious injury that will force him to take time out to recover.

The combination of an impressive victory, a serious injury and a contract with an American management team makes it clear that Alvi Dasuyev is at the start of a promising new chapter. Knockout News will continue to closely follow his path to the international elite and his potential move towards the UFC.

This message Contract Signed, UFC on the Horizon for Alvi Dasuyev! was first published on KnockOutNieuws.

Buy your ticket – click on the photo

Interview | Berre Vanduffel is chasing his second title at Enfusion 163

Having won the very first LEV-ONE title of his career, Berre Vanduffel now faces another huge challenge. At Enfusion 163, the Belgian fighter will have the chance to add a second championship belt to his list of achievements when he takes on the formidable Jahfaro Gezius.

Berre is in top form and is leaving nothing to chance. Preparations are going extremely well and the intensity of his training is higher than ever. Every session is entirely focused on one goal: to leave the ring as champion once again.

“I feel strong, I’m fully prepared and I’ve done everything I can to be at my best come fight time. Now it’s time to prove it in the ring.”

Berre Vanduffel

The clash with Jahfaro Gezius promises to be a spectacular event. Both fighters possess the qualities to make the difference, but Berre is determined to make history once again and secure his second title. Berre previously won the LEV-ONE title and has since continued to build on his strong rise within the sport.

Knockoutnieuws spoke exclusively with Berre Vanduffel about his preparations, his motivation and the challenge awaiting him at Enfusion 163. One thing is clear: his hunger for success is greater than ever and Berre is ready to give it his all when the bell rings

This message Berre Vanduffel set for title fight against Jahfaro Gezius on 26 September 2026 was first published on KnockOutNieuws.

TILBURG – Knockoutnieuws spoke to Zion Goudmein, who is gearing up for a new challenge at Enfusion 163 in Tilburg. The talented B-class fighter is stepping back into the ring wearing the smaller MMA gloves, a discipline in which speed, precision and fighting spirit really come into their own.

Zion Goudmein

During the interview, Zion looked back on his previous bout. He spoke candidly about the lessons he’d learnt from that fight and how that experience had made him a stronger fighter. In his view, every bout is a step forward and an opportunity to develop further on his way to the top.

With Enfusion 163 on the horizon, his preparations are more intensive than ever. Zion feels physically strong, mentally sharp and is determined to make a convincing impression. Fighting with the smaller gloves requires a different approach, but that is precisely what makes this challenge so appealing to him.

Zion Goudmein

As if that weren’t enough, Zion is also looking beyond kickboxing. He has set his sights on a move to MMA, where a whole new world of possibilities awaits him. He sees combining striking with wrestling and ground work as the next step in his development as a well-rounded fighter.

For Zion, it’s not just about winning, but also about continuing to grow, taking on new challenges and proving himself time and time again. His ambition is clear: to keep developing and, step by step, make a name for himself within both the kickboxing and MMA scenes.

This message Knockout News Exclusive: Zion Goudmein on Enfusion 163 and his MMA dream was first published on KnockOutNieuws.