Yousri Boughanem (left) is following in the footsteps of his legendary father Youssef
Morocco’s Muay Thai legend, Youssef Boughanem, is preparing for his MMA return at BRAVE CF 83. Accompanied by his son Yousri and fellow world champion brother, Yassine, Boughanem will debut at BRAVE CF. Boughanem will face the hometown favorite Anando Amoksi at BRAVE CF 83 in the Netherlands on May 25. Youssef transitioned into MMA earlier this year after winning almost all Kickboxing and Muay Thai titles. He dominated with a knockout victory in France and will have his second MMA fight when he fights Amoksi at BRAVE CF 83.
Much Awaited Transition to MMA
The journey to BRAVE CF 83 is more than a professional milestone for the Moroccan superstar. Family always comes first to Boughanem. His success in combat sports has transformed his life and impacted his family. Youssef began practicing Muay Thai at a young age in Belgium. After the death of his parents, he left Belgium to pursue his dream. At 17, after securing second place in a tournament in the Netherlands, he used his prize money to buy a one-way ticket to Thailand. He was joined by his younger brother, Yassine Boughanem.
Family Business
The early days in Thailand were challenging for the Boughanem brothers. Struggling to make ends meet, they faced adversity head-on. Their hard work paid off as Youssef’s talent and determination led him to accumulate numerous titles. Establishing a formidable career in Muay Thai, Youssef’s success influenced his family. Youssef’s younger brother Yassine followed in his footsteps to become a world champion in Muay Thai. His brother who competes in the heavyweight division will be at the ringside at BRAVE CF 83. Just like his brother, Yassine has also transitioned into MMA.
Youssef’s son, Yousri Boughanem, is also carving out a path in combat sports inspired by his father. Yousri’s dedication to the sport is so profound that he will be in Youssef’s corner at BRAVE CF 83. It is that team, with the help of coach Samart, that he hopes will lead him to victory.
‘I have a great team that helps me suffer’, says Youssef.
BRAVE CF 83 is special for Boughanem as he returns to the Netherlands, where he first earned the money to move to Thailand. The Moroccan star is poised to start a new chapter for himself and his family. BRAVE CF 83, held in association with Enfusion’s ECE MMA, will be the third BRAVE CF event of the year 2024. The second event of BRAVE CF’s 2024 Europe tour has opened new opportunities for Arab MMA fighters to make a name worldwide.
Hari Bhagirath is the former Chief Creative Officer at BRAVE Combat Federation. Currently, he heads Strategic Relations and Financial Communication for a major Fortune 100 organization. He is also the co-founder of Totem Capital, a private wealth management initiative.