Mark the date: January 13th at Yas Links Golf Course in Abu Dhabi, where the grass won’t be the only thing getting a trim. AAM Seddiqi Sports, in cahoots with the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), is rolling out “Rising Stars Arabia: The Revolution”. It’s not just any old fight night; it’s a historical shindig, the first of its kind in the UAE and MENA region, shining a spotlight on Arab boxing’s finest.
The Middle East Professional Boxing Commission is putting its stamp of approval on this one. You can catch the action live on DAZN and ESPN Knockout, or tune in to Abu Dhabi Sports TV, starting at 8 p.m. UAEST (which is 11 a.m. EST and 8 a.m. PST, for those of you setting alarms).
2024’s looking bright for Rising Stars Arabia, according to the head honcho, promoter Ahmed Seddiqi. They’re bringing back world-class boxer Moussa Gholam to the global stage on DAZN and ESPN KO. Alongside him are rising stars like Fahad Ali Baloushi, Bader Samreen, and Iraq’s hidden gem, Amer Kadhum Ghaneem.
Ahmed’s calling all Moroccans, Emiratis, and other Arab nationals to rally behind their fighters. It’s a family affair, folks! And, of course, none of this would’ve seen the light of day without DCT Abu Dhabi and broadcasting buddies DAZN and ESPN Knockout.
Moussa Gholam, who once ranked No. 14 by the WBC, is making a comeback. He had to sit out the inaugural event due to an injury but is now ready to stamp his mark in the Middle East. His dance partner for the evening? South Africa’s “Baby” Lunga Sitemela, a champ in his own right.
The co-main event has local hero Fahad “Kid Emirati” Al Bloushi pitted against Argentina’s veteran Milner Marcano. Fahad’s riding an 11-fight winning streak and isn’t planning on hitting the brakes.
And don’t blink during the Special Lightweight Attraction. Bader “The Master” Samreen, Jordan’s first pro boxer, faces Jeff Ofori from the UK. Samreen’s not just a pretty face; he’s got a bronze from the 2018 AIBA Youth World Championships under his belt.
Kicking off the live stream, Syria’s Mohammed “The Destroyer” Bekdash, an undefeated cruiserweight force, faces Tanzania’s Shaban Hamadi Jongo. Bekdash’s on a 14-fight knockout streak, while Jongo’s a former Tanzanian champ – expect fireworks!
The undercard is just as stacked. Iraq’s light heavyweight Amer Kadhum Ghaneem faces Argentina’s Marcela German Rodriguez, and Jordan’s Hisham Osama Majed Elsimreen takes on Indonesia’s Riva Kundimang.
Also, keep an eye out for Moroccan Anas Hafiane, Saudi Arabian Sulaiman Abbar, and UAE’s Fahad Alkhoori, all ready to rumble in four-rounders.
Remember, the card’s subject to change, so don’t get too cozy with these matchups.
AAM Seddiqi Sports, a decade into promoting fighters, boasts over 30 talents and five world title shows broadcasted globally on ESPN, Sky Sports, and more.
DCT Abu Dhabi, meanwhile, is busy putting Abu Dhabi on the map, not just for its culture and tourism but for its knock-out sporting events.
Tickets are up for grabs at https://swiy.co/rsa2. For the latest scoop, follow @seddiqiboxing on Instagram and check out seddiqiboxing.com.