Following his world title crowning at GLORY, Mohamed Touchassie shares his family’s emotion upon receiving the royal letter as he prepares for his first title defence.
Recognition at the highest level of State once again honors the excellence of national athletes competing internationally. After capturing the GLORY light heavyweight world belt in June 2026 in Rotterdam, Moroccan-Dutch fighter Mohamed Touchassie received a letter of congratulations addressed directly on behalf of King Mohammed VI through the Kingdom’s embassy. In an interview with specialized media, the 24-year-old champion recalled the immense pride felt by his family upon receiving this royal message, highlighting his family’s deep attachment to the Sovereign. This high distinction crowns the young athlete’s exceptional journey, having had to fight and win three intense bouts in a single evening to claim top spot in his division.
A warm welcome upon returning to the country
This sporting triumph and mark of royal consideration resonated strongly with the national public during the champion’s stay on domestic soil. Warmly welcomed by citizens and combat sports enthusiasts in the streets, the fighter nicknamed « Baby Badr » experienced firsthand the popularity and pride generated by his performances in international rings. This trajectory directly mirrors that of national legends in the sport, such as Badr Hari, who was also honored by the Sovereign in his time, confirming the ongoing tradition of Moroccan excellence across major global kickboxing promotions.
Impact on national sport and upcoming title defence
The prominence of these elite athletic figures acts as a major driver of appeal for combat sports while encouraging youth participation across the Kingdom’s clubs and academies. The rise of international talents stimulates the development of high-performing training pathways and generates positive economic spillovers for the local sports ecosystem. Fully recovered from injuries, Mohamed Touchassie will put his world title on the line on 12 December at the GLORY Collision 10 event in Arnhem. This blockbuster matchup will pit him against fellow countryman and former champion Tarik Khbabez, providing a spectacular showcase for the Moroccan school of kickboxing before a global audience.
