World Kickboxing Champ Khbabez Faces Maslobojev in Glory 100 Title Bout

In the presence of the media, Tarik Khbabez, 32, originally from The Hague, appeared relaxed. During the traditional face-to-face, a smile was exchanged and the Lithuanian Maslobojev tried to shake the champion’s hand. This atmosphere differs from the one that had surrounded their previous sporting encounter.

Khbabez commented positively on this respectful approach: "Sergej respects me, and this differs from the period before our first fight in 2022. If it can happen this way and we then face each other in the ring, then I’m happy about it. We’re just going to fight very hard when the time comes," he said.

The June 13 fight is a rematch of their October 8, 2022 confrontation, won by Maslobojev. Although he says he is satisfied to face the Lithuanian, whom he considers one of the best in the category (up to 95 kg), Khbabez admits to feeling particular pressure. "I’m happy to have him as an opponent, but I still feel frustration because of my defeat three years ago. It’s as if I had to prove myself again, when I’m now world champion," explained the kickboxer of Moroccan origin.

In parallel to his kickboxing career, Tarik Khbabez is developing a project in boxing. He aims to join the Moroccan national team and could soon travel to Cuba for an initial contact. However, he was keen to clarify his priorities: "If this program coincides with my title defense at Glory, I will unfortunately have to withdraw in order to be able to defend my world title. Then the goal will be to prepare for the 2028 Olympics with the national team." Defending his world belt remains his immediate priority before the Rotterdam deadline.