Rotterdam, Netherlands — The air in the city of Rotterdam is thick with anticipation. The formalities are complete, the weigh-ins meticulously documented, and now all eyes turn to GLORY 104, an event poised to deliver one of kickboxing`s most compelling spectacles. Fighters have hit the scales, made weight (mostly), and are now primed for battle, promising an evening of high-stakes drama and unforgiving power.
The Vacant Throne: Khbabez vs. Rajabzadeh
Headlining the card is a clash that has fight fans salivating: the battle for the vacant GLORY Light Heavyweight World Title. Former champion Tarik Khbabez (52-12-1, 28 KO), known for his relentless forward pressure and granite chin, steps back into the spotlight. Across from him stands the explosive Bahram Rajabzadeh (72-5, 64 KO), a fighter whose record boasts an alarming number of knockouts, indicating a penchant for ending fights early and violently. This isn`t just a title fight; it`s a guaranteed collision between two juggernauts who eschew subtlety for brute force. Expect fireworks, and perhaps a slight leaning towards a short night for someone, though predicting the victor in a matchup of this caliber is a fool`s errand. One thing is certain: a new light heavyweight king will be crowned, and it won`t be without significant resistance.
The Gauntlet: Last Heavyweight Standing Tournament
As if a world title wasn`t enough, GLORY 104 also hosts the next brutal installment of the “Last Heavyweight Standing” tournament. Eight formidable heavyweights will enter, split across two four-man, one-night brackets, all vying for the chance to advance towards tournament glory. This format is a true test of grit, conditioning, and sheer will. To emerge victorious, a fighter must not only possess devastating power and technical skill but also the endurance to withstand multiple high-impact contests in a single evening.
Among the heavyweights poised to make a statement are:
- Levi Rigters (20-3, 10 KO): A formidable presence known for his clinical striking.
- Nabil Khachab (30-6-1, 4 KO): A robust competitor eager to prove his dominance.
- Rade Opacic (22-7, 17 KO): With a high knockout ratio, he`s always a threat.
- Milos Cvjeticanin (14-4, 9 KO): An experienced fighter looking to ascend the ranks.
The “Last Heavyweight Standing” isn`t merely about winning fights; it`s about surviving a physical and mental marathon. The wear and tear of each bout accumulate, making the final showdown a testament to who can push past their limits when exhaustion looms. It`s a gladiatorial spectacle, modernized, where only one can truly stand tall at the end of the night.
A Twist in the Tale: Superfight Series Adjustments
The intricate dance of fight promotion occasionally hits a snag, as was the case with the Superfight Series. Miguel Trindade, unfortunately, failed to make weight, a minor procedural misstep in a sport where precision is paramount. While this meant his original opponent, Bobo Sacko, was left without a suitable match, the show, as they say, must go on. Halil Kutukcu has stepped in to face Trindade in a 74 kg catchweight bout, ensuring that the fans still get a compelling matchup, albeit with a slight adjustment to the original script. It`s a reminder that even in the meticulously planned world of combat sports, human elements and unforeseen circumstances can add an unscripted layer of intrigue.
Weigh-In Highlights: The Numbers Behind the Showdown
With all fighters successfully — or adaptably — making their required weights, the anticipation for the battles ahead is palpable. The numbers on the scale merely confirm eligibility; the real measure of a fighter`s readiness comes when the first bell rings.
Vacant GLORY Light Heavyweight World Title:
- Tarik Khbabez (94.7 kg / 209 lbs)
- Bahram Rajabzadeh (92.6 kg / 204 lbs)
Selected Tournament & Superfight Weigh-Ins:
- Rade Opacic (112 kg / 257 lbs) vs. Mike Kena (101.9 kg / 225 lbs)
- Milos Cvjeticanin (99.3 kg / 219 lbs) vs. Alin Nechita (107 kg / 236 lbs)
- Sofian Laidouni (114.5 kg / 252 lbs) vs. Nabil Khachab (160.9 kg / 355 lbs)
- Levi Rigters (110.3 kg / 243 lbs) vs. Asadulla Nasipov (117.4 kg / 259 lbs)
- Miguel Trindade (73.5 kg / 162 lbs) vs. Halil Kutukcu (73.8 kg / 163 lbs) [Catchweight 74 kg]
The Stage is Set
GLORY 104 is more than just a series of fights; it`s a testament to the enduring power and excitement of kickboxing. From the high-stakes title bout to the brutal endurance test of the heavyweight tournament, every matchup promises intensity. The vibrant energy of Rotterdam, a city with a deep appreciation for combat sports, will undoubtedly fuel the atmosphere, making this a truly memorable event for fighters and fans alike. Prepare for an evening where power meets precision, where resilience is tested, and where new legends may very well be forged.
Gareth Fenton 
Ellis Thorne