Kickboxing fans are buzzing with excitement as the Glory 98 event approaches, signaling the highly anticipated return of Belgian-Moroccan fighter Jamal Ben Saddik. After nearly two and a half years away from the ring, he faces Uku Jurjendal from Estonia, reminding the combat sports community why he is such a formidable presence. The event takes place tonight, and for those wondering how they can catch the action, it's all happening live!
Glory 98 starts at 19:30 local time, with the main card featuring the headlining match between Ben Saddik and Jurjendal expected to air between 22:00 and 22:30. Fans can watch the event live on Videoland, which is free for subscribers and offers additional free access through a trial subscription. For those unable to tune in, the evening promises to be packed with seven exciting bouts, even though one fight has been canceled due to the withdrawal of Ahmed Chikh Mousa.
Ben Saddik's return to the ring follows tumultuous times. After losing to Rico Verhoeven in 2021, he was suspended for testing positive for banned substances, leading to serious setbacks both professionally and personally. Issues unfolded with his health as he battled thyroid cancer and faced legal troubles, including a prison sentence for money laundering. Yet, he stands ready to reclaim his reputation and prove his skills once again.
Jamal's excitement is palpable as he shares his feelings about stepping back inside the squared circle: "I’ve missed fighting so much. Something was taken away from me, which has been mentally torturous. I won’t say I’ve been done wrong because I’m also responsible. It was tough to get back to my previous level after such a long break, but I’m really looking forward to the fight now," he stated during his recent interview with NOS.
His past struggles are not holding him back, as he looks forward to a future filled with potential victories. "I feel good. I worked on my kicks, and people are going to see it. My legs might be my strongest weapon, but I didn’t use them before. I’m going for a spectacular knockout. After this, I plan to show who the man with the most experience is at the upcoming Glory Tournament, and then I want to be world champion. I will work hard for this dream until it's fulfilled," Ben Saddik added.
Ben Saddik has significant motivation, but he’s not the only one making headlines. Jurjendal, who is no stranger to the crowd, earned a technical knockout victory over Badr Hari during Glory 89. This fight adds to the stakes of their matchup tonight, as both fighters appear eager to establish their dominance.
Despite the much-anticipated thrill of Glory 98, fans were dealt a blow with the late cancellation of the matchup featuring Ahmed Chikh Mousa. His withdrawal due to unspecified medical issues leaves one less bout, but the event still promises to deliver action, as there's enough talent on the card to keep spectators engaged. Fans took to social media to express their disappointment, but are still eagerly awaiting the other fights.
The co-main event is also set to be thrilling, with welterweight champion Chico Kwasi defending his title against challenger Teodor Hristov. Both fighters boast impressive records, enhancing the excitement surrounding the evening.
The remaining lineup for Glory 98 includes several promising matchups:
- Light Heavyweight: Cem Caceres vs. Mory Kromah
- Light Heavyweight: Ibrahim El Bouni vs. Michael Boapeah
- Middleweight: Iliass Hammouche vs. Mesud Selimovic
- Welterweight: Hamicha vs. Calmente Mendes
- Featherweight: André Santos vs. Chris Wunn
- Welterweight: Robin Ciric vs. Mehdi Ait El Hadj
- Welterweight: Don Sno vs. Ismail Ayaadi
- Featherweight: Denis Wosik vs. Matthan Choinard
- Welterweight: Soufiane El Hammouchi vs. Antonio Krajinovic
This evening is not just about the fights, though; it’s about the spirit of perseverance and the thrill of competition. Fans and fighters alike have much at stake as they witness what could be the start of Ben Saddik's comeback story or the rise of Jurjendal. Regardless of the outcome, Glory 98 promises to be another remarkable chapter in the world of kickboxing.