Glory Light Heavyweight Champion Tarik Khbabez to Defend Title Against Donegi Abena in Rematch

Tarik Khbabez, 32, was crowned world light heavyweight champion of Glory in March, after winning his fight against Donegi Abena, 26, by split decision in the Grand Prix semi-finals. Since then, the Surinamese kickboxer has constantly contested this victory of the Moroccan, claiming that the latter does not deserve this world title. The former 2023 world champion in the category even said he was affected by this defeat that he considers an injustice.

The December 7 fight at Glory Collision will be an opportunity for Donegi Abena to take his revenge on the reigning world champion. "We’ve known for a long time that this fight was going to take place. Tarik has already proven his superiority against him, but we hope we can finally close this chapter," said Maikel Polanen, Khbabez’s trainer, assuring that the Moroccan kickboxer has already recovered from his torn right hand, suffered during the Grand Prix.

"The healing went well. Hopefully it will continue like this with the training that will increase in intensity... He’s had so many injuries that we just hope everything will be fine. Tarik always leaves his soul in the ring. In every fight, he gives everything," added Polanen, who is focusing on preparing Tarik for the December 7 duel.