After 19 editions that took place in Tokyo, Istanbul, London and many US cities, some of the world’s best kickboxers finally got a chance to showcase their skills in a region where martial arts continue to rise in popularity.
So though it took 20 events to get to the Middle East, when it did it was no surprise that the latest in kickboxing’s Glory Series was held at Dubai.
Friday night’s Glory 20 Dubai at the World Trade Centre was broadcast to millions of people in 170 countries. Dubai Sports television relayed it to a local audience, as well.
In Sheikh Rashid Hall, the crowd size was initially modest, with a few more hundred trickling in as the night progressed.
Those who made it were treated to night of intense action.
It is the third martial-arts tournament to take place at the World Trade Centre’s exhibition halls in less than year.
Last May, Global Fighting Championship gave us the chance to see the brilliant mixed martial arts fighter Badr Hari at close quarters. A few months later, One FC brought their slick operation that introduced the likes of American champion Ben Askren to local MMA fans.
One FC is almost exclusively based in the Far East, but when it expanded it expanded its horizons, the decision – like Glory’s – to come to Dubai proved an easy one.
With venues, training facilities, and most importantly financial backing, not to mention geographical location, Dubai is increasingly becoming part of the martial arts scene.
That is good news for the growing fan base.
With fighting gyms popping all over the city, participation is rising, too. Martial arts may not be in the mainstream yet, but it is only a matter of time.
Jason Wilnis, who lost the Middleweight Tournament Final to Simon Marcus, had earlier remarked that “Dubai loves martial arts”.
Expect more organisers to bring their franchises to Dubai in the coming years.
akhaled@thenational.ae
Follow us on twitter at @NatSportUAE
