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 Shawn Dandois 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.

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.

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.

Thian de Vries returns after a broken hand with another knockout

After a four-month absence, Thian de Vries has made a convincing return to the ring. The Dutch kickboxer recovered from a broken right hand and, with yet another knockout, added his 35th victory to his impressive unbeaten record.

De Vries sustained the injury during his first outing on 29 March 2026 at Enfusion. Whilst executing a backfist, he broke his right hand, forcing him to undergo a lengthy recovery period.

Thian de Vries

During those months away from the ring, De Vries admitted he had less motivation to devote himself fully to his training. He spent more time gaming on his computer than practising kickboxing. Nevertheless, on his return at K-1 DONTAKU in Japan on 20 July 2026 , he showed that his explosiveness and finishing instinct are still very much intact. With another knockout, he proved once again why he is one of the most dangerous kickboxers around at the moment.

His unbeaten record now stands at 35 victories: 31 by knockout and four on points. These figures make it clear that De Vries not only wins, but usually manages to knock out his opponents early.

After his bout, De Vries also spoke openly about his future. He wants to fight a few more kickboxing bouts, but plans to make the switch to MMA afterwards. This new discipline seems to be rekindling his hunger once again.

For De Vries, it is no longer just about extending his unbeaten kickboxing record. He is looking for new challenges that will once again push him to his limits. His comeback with a knockout confirms that he is still at the top of his game, but his sights are now set on a new chapter in the cage.

This message Thian de Vries strikes again: a devastating knockout at K-1 in Japan! was first published on KnockOutNieuws.

On Saturday 6 June 2026, Genk will be the battleground of a spectacular evening of top kickboxing during Enfusion. Fans can get ready for world title fights, explosive confrontations and top international fighters giving their all in the ring.

Main fights of the evening:

Max Weekers VS Anwar Dira

Vacant Enfusion Middleweight World Title

Max Weekers VS Anwar Dira

Levi Minkenberg vs Jannes Vercaemst

World title fight for the Enfusion Super Lightweight title – Minkenberg defends his world title

Levi Minkenberg VS Jannes Vercaemst

Zakaria Belarej vs Omar Mahgoub

Title fight

Zakaria Belarej vs Omar Mahgoub

Rachid Rabiker vs. Bas Van Dijk

Title fight

Rachid Rabiker vs Bas Van Dijk

Expectations are hugely high for this edition of Enfusion. With multiple titles on the line and fighters known for their spectacular style, it promises to be a night no martial arts fan wants to miss.

Online ticket sales:

Enfusion Online sales

This message ENFUSION 162 GENK 6 JUNE 2026 – ANWAR DIRA VS MAX WEEKERS, LEVI MINKENBERG VS JANNES VERCAEMST AND MORE WORLD TITLE FIGHTS – ORDER YOUR TICKETS ONLINE NOW was first published on KnockOutNieuws.

The Honor Fight League ring in sunny Curaçao was the setting for a much-anticipated showdown between Sharif Ben Mabrouk and Rudsel Zinhagel. The duel promised spectacle – a clash between aggressive attacking power and strategic control. However, what began as a dominant display by Sharif ended in an unexpected and controversial denouement.

First round: Sharif immediately sets the tone

From the first bell, Sharif Ben Mabrouk resolutely took the initiative. With an impressive series of powerful punches, he immediately put heavy pressure on his opponent Rudsel Zinhagel. His attacking style and fast pace made it clear that he was determined to seize control of the fight.

Zinhagel, on the other hand, took a more wait-and-see and strategic approach. He kept his cover closed, absorbed the attacks and carefully analysed Sharif’s movements. Although Sharif clearly had the initiative.

Sharif’s dominance, but at the same time knew that one well-timed move could completely turn the fight around.

Second round: High pressure and an unexpected twist

The second round began with an even faster pace. Sharif continued his aggressive strategy and increased the pressure further. His punches were powerful and purposeful, and he seemed to be getting closer and closer to a decisive moment.

Yet Zinhagel held firm under the sustained pressure. With just seconds left in the round, an unexpected turn of events followed. As Sharif went on the attack again, Zinhagel launched a quick and precise counterpunch. The blow hit unfortunate and immediately caused an injury to Sharif’s eye.

The impact was visible and the situation changed from control to uncertainty in a split second.

HONOR FIGHT LEAGUE

Abrupt end and a controversial decision

Ring doctor was called in to examine Sharif. After a brief but thorough check-up, the difficult decision was taken to stop the match due to the eye injury sustained.

For Sharif, this was a particularly bitter outcome. Until that moment, he had dominated the fight and seemed on his way to a convincing victory. His control in the first round and most of the second had been evident.

According to the applicable rules, the injury was caused by a legal punch. As a result, victory was officially awarded to Rudsel Zinhagel, to the surprise of much of the audience. The decision caused mixed reactions and made the duel controversial.

This message Sharif’s strong start ends in disappointment after sudden injury was first published on KnockOutNieuws.

The opening round began with a phase of probing, with both fighters carefully guarding their distance and looking for openings in each other’s defences. Robert Morrow initially firmly held the centre of the ring, while Thomas Bridgewater patiently waited for the right moment to strike.

That moment came when Bridgewater placed a series of hard body kicks that clearly had their effect. The impact of the kicks was audible in the arena and forced Morrow to be extra careful. Nevertheless, Morrow remained steadfast and showed strong mental toughness. The first round thus immediately set the tone for a tough fight.

Robert Morrow VS Thomas Bridgewater

Second round: Bridgewater increases the pace

In the second round, Bridgewater visibly shifted up a gear. With renewed energy and aggression, he put Morrow under constant pressure. His combinations became sharper and more powerful, and his intention to take the fight to himself was evident.

The decisive moment came when Bridgewater placed a devastating attack that hit Morrow heavily. The referee had to intervene and gave an eight count – a crucial moment that tipped the momentum completely to Bridgewater.

Although Morrow bravely returned to the fight, it became clear that Bridgewater was firmly in control of the initiative. His pressure continued until the end of the round, continuing to look for an opportunity to decide the fight early.

Round three: A battle of attrition until the last second

The third and final round turned into a true battle of attrition. Fatigue began to show in both fighters, but neither was willing to give up ground.

With heavy breathing and perseverance, both athletes continued to attack and defend with everything they had left in them. Every attack, counter and defensive action added to the tension in the arena.

Until the very last moment, Bridgewater and Morrow kept bombarding each other, determined not to give up the fight.

The decision: a deserved victory for Bridgewater

A moment of silence followed the final bell while the judges deliberated. Thomas Bridgewater was declared the winner.

Strong team ARJ behind victory

Immediately after the results were announced, Levi Rigters appeared in the ring, visibly proud of his brother and pupil’s performance. As a coach, he played a crucial role in preparing and guiding Bridgewater during the fight.

This message Bridgewater dominates and beats Morrow in spectacular battle in Curaçao was first published on KnockOutNieuws.

Thian de Vries vs Jilton Lutterbach: An Epic Fight of Willpower and Survival

The tension in the arena was palpable when Thian de Vries and Jilton Lutterbach faced each other. Five three-minute rounds awaited them-an ultimate test of strength, technique and mental toughness. Even before the opening bell, however, a hint of uncertainty hung around Thian. At the last minute, he revealed that his right shoulder was seriously hindering him. Punches were painful, limited even-but giving up? Not an option.

Thian De Vries

Round 1: Explosive Start

From the first second, Thian set the tone. With sharp front kicks, he immediately forced Jilton on the defensive and pushed him towards the ropes. His aggressive approach was underlined with a bold backfist, a signal that he was going full on the attack despite his injury.

Jilton, however, did not let himself be intimidated. With powerful counters, he managed to hit several times. The first round ended in an intense and balanced fight, in which both fighters made their intentions clear: this was going to be war.

Round 2: Crisis and Character

The second round began as the first ended-feeling and uncompromising. Until the moment when everything changed.

At 1:04, Jilton struck with a devastating right hook. Thian was hit full on, staggered and had to take an eight-counter. The arena hushed. A knockdown at eight-count.

But what followed was pure fighter’s mentality.

Thian recovered, just in time to dodge a flying knee from Jilton-a moment on the brink. His bit flew out, his body cracked, but his spirit remained unbreakable.

After the round, it became clear how serious the situation was: his hand was presumably broken. With one functional hand, he continued.

Thian De Vries & Luc Verheye

Round 3: The Resurrection

What happened next defied all logic.

Thian came back as reborn. He dominated with high kicks, hard low kicks and constant pressure. Midway through the round, he drove Jilton into the corner and unleashed a devastating attack.

The result: an eight-count for Jilton.

Another flurry of attacks followed moments later. A spectacular flying kick and a rain of punches put Jilton in trouble again. Again an eight-counter.

The roles were completely reversed.

Round 4: Dominance

Thian now took full control of the fight. With smart positioning and constant pressure, he kept Jilton under fire. His left jabs-necessarily his strongest weapon-were deployed with precision and power.

Yet Jilton remained dangerous. He fought back with everything he had and showed tremendous resilience. But Thian was unstoppable.

Round 5: The Ultimate Trial

The final round was a battle of character. Both fighters were visibly exhausted, their bodies damaged and their energy almost completely used up.

Still, Thian kept moving forward.

With a broken hand, an injured shoulder and sheer willpower, he kept pressing. Every second was tough, every exchange decisive.

The crowd lived with him, on the edge of their seats.

Jilton Lutterbach

The Victory: History Written

When the final bell sounded, it was clear: this was no ordinary victory.

With an almost superhuman effort, Thian de Vries convincingly retained his title. But more than that-he made history.

His unbeaten run was extended to an impressive 35 wins.

A feat that definitively establishes his name as one of the greats in the sport. This fight was no simple title defence, but a model of what defines true champions:

perseverance, courage and an unbreakable spirit.

Jilton Lutterbach VS Thian de Vries Respect

This message March 28, 2026 | Goes, Zeeland | Enfusion: Thian de Vries Survives Battlefield and Holds Title in Epic Fight against Jilton Lutterbach was first published on KnockOutNieuws.