Kickboxer Jamal Ben Saddik Suspended 6 Months for Post-Fight Assault on Rico Verhoeven

As a member of Khachab’s staff, Jamal Ben Saddik got into the ring after the announcement of Rico Verhoeven’s victory and verbally assaulted the Dutchman before kicking him. For these acts, Glory, in collaboration with the Combat Sports Authority, has decided to impose a six-month suspension on the Moroccan champion. "Ben Saddik’s actions could have provoked violence and caused damage to participants, fans and officials," Glory explained.

Verhoeven won the Glory Grand Prix in early March, after beating Sofian Laïdouni, Nabil Khachab and Levi Rigters. The Dutch champion said he was very disappointed by the behavior of his eternal rival, Ben Saddik. "I won clearly and legitimately. And then he comes back into the ring. This man must be banned from this sport. It’s unacceptable," he said after the incident.

He added: "I’m really disgusted by this behavior. It’s absolutely not sporting and beautiful... I’ve already beaten this guy twice decisively, so I really don’t fear him. He’s already the biggest and strongest of all, but he keeps filling up. It’s incredible, isn’t it?" Verhoeven and Ben Saddik have already faced each other three times, with two wins for the Dutchman and one for the Belgian-Moroccan.