Yousri Belgaroui Moves From GLORY to the UFC
Yousri Belgaroui, the former GLORY kickboxing star, is making waves In mixed martial arts and may soon find himself competing in the UFC. The 32-year-old Dutch fighter has been turning heads with his recent performances, particularly his stunning victory at Dana White’s Contender Series 71.
A Kickboxing Pedigree
Belgaroui’s background in kickboxing is nothing short of impressive. With a record of 27-7 in the sport, he has faced some of the biggest names in combat sports. Notably, he is one of only four men to have competed against both Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira in kickboxing matches. He went 1–2 against Pereira in kickboxing.
Transition to MMA
In 2021, Belgaroui made the decision to pivot to mixed martial arts. His journey in this new discipline has been marked by determination and steady improvement. After accumulating a 5-2 record, he earned his first shot at Dana White’s Contender Series in 2023. Despite losing that initial opportunity, Belgaroui didn’t let the setback deter him.
Redemption at DWCS 71
Belgaroui’s perseverance paid off when he received a second chance at the Contender Series. On September 11, 2024, he faced off against Taiga Iwasaki in a middleweight bout that showcased his evolving skillset. The fight was intense, with Belgaroui overcoming early challenges to secure a spectacular third-round TKO victory.
A Dominant Performance
The finishing sequence of the fight was particularly impressive. Belgaroui unleashed a devastating knee to Iwasaki’s midsection, followed by a relentless barrage of strikes. The highlight of the assault was a perfectly timed flying knee that visibly rocked his opponent. Refusing to let up, Belgaroui chased Iwasaki around the octagon, eventually dropping him with a flurry of punches against the cage.
Connections to UFC Stars
What makes Belgaroui’s potential UFC signing even more intriguing is his connection to current UFC stars. He has become a training partner of Alex Pereira, a former opponent turned ally. This relationship has not only helped Belgaroui improve his skills but also gives him valuable insight into what it takes to succeed at the highest level of MMA.
Looking Ahead
As the MMA world eagerly awaits Dana White’s decision, there’s a palpable sense of excitement surrounding Belgaroui’s future. His kickboxing credentials, combined with his rapidly improving MMA game, make him a thrilling prospect for the UFC’s middleweight division.
Yousri Belgaroui’s journey from GLORY kickboxing to the cusp of a UFC contract reflects his skill, determination, and adaptability. If signed, he would join the ranks of other successful kickboxers who have made the transition to MMA, potentially bringing a new level of striking expertise to the octagon. Fight fans around the world will be watching closely to see if the “Baby Face Assassin” becomes the next big thing in the UFC’s talent-rich roster.
Sources:
[1] https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2024/09/ufc-news-yousri-belgaroui-vs-taiga-iwasaki
[2] https://www.si.com/fannation/mma/news/kickboxer-who-beat-alex-pereira-stuns-with-ko-in-front-of-dana-white
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovG_nxInb3E
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysx4GRlhg-Y
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gThGoJ1hWnc
[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QHx1Qev2TYE
Sources
Tags: MMA
