Tyjani Beztati Shocks Followers With Exit From GLORY to Pursue MMA Profession

Tyjani Beztati, considered one of kickboxing’s brightest stars, has formally introduced his departure from GLORY Kickboxing to chase a brand new chapter in combined martial arts (MMA).

The reigning light-weight champion revealed his resolution on Instagram. He stunned followers who’ve adopted his almost decade-long dominance within the sport.

Beztati’s Rise as GLORY Champion

Popularly referred to as “The Wonderboy,” Beztati signed with GLORY in 2016. He was solely 18 years outdated at the moment, in accordance with SI’s MMA Knockout.

“I’m grateful for the chance GLORY gave me to grow not only as a champion, but as a fighter and as a man. From signing as the youngest fighter in GLORY history at 18, to becoming the first-ever Moroccan champion, the youngest champion at 23, and holding the record for the most wins in GLORY lightweight history, it has been an unforgettable journey,” Beztati posted on his Instagram account.

His early frustration in his first two title makes an attempt in opposition to Sittichai and Marat Grigorian was lastly repaid in 2021. Beztati gained the light-weight title by outpointing Elvis Gashi and efficiently defended the belt 5 occasions in two and a half years. From right here, he grew to become considered one of GLORY’s most dependable champions.

Division Shuffle and Switch to Welterweight

Beztati’s reign hit a roadblock when GLORY introduced it was pausing the light-weight division. This left the Dutch-Moroccan star with restricted choices, forcing him to step up in weight.

He challenged welterweight champion Chico Kwasi and fought to back-to-back break up attracts in GLORY 96 and GLORY Underground. While Beztati showcased his adaptability, the shortage of a transparent path ahead could have fueled his resolution to go away kickboxing behind.

Kickboxers Turning Into MMA Stars

Beztati’s swap to MMA locations him amongst an elite group of former GLORY fighters who’ve efficiently transitioned to the cage. Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira are prime examples; each made the leap from GLORY to the UFC and captured world championships.

Adesanya constructed an undefeated MMA document earlier than becoming a member of the UFC in 2018, the place he went on to defend the middleweight belt a number of occasions. Pereira, however, wanted solely six skilled MMA bouts earlier than incomes a UFC contract and ultimately holding titles in two weight divisions.

Other ex-GLORY standouts, equivalent to Cédric Doumbé, have additionally thrived in promotions just like the PFL, additional proving that kickboxers can adapt shortly to MMA’s distinctive calls for. Given Beztati’s age, talent set, and championship pedigree, many consider he has the instruments to comply with an identical path.

At a younger age of 27, Beztati is getting into MMA in his athletic prime. Though he must earn just a few victories earlier than showing in one of many huge promotions, powerhouses just like the UFC and PFL will likely be conserving a watchful eye on his trajectory.

It’s no surprise that Beztati would possibly have the ability to change into probably the most attention-grabbing crossover fighters within the sport in a short while. His highly effective hanging expertise, title-level expertise, and need for a “new challenge” are sufficient to see how far he may go in his new profession path.