Who is Badr Hari?

Badr Hari is one of the most famous and controversial kickboxers of all time. He has fought and defeated some of the best fighters in the history of the sport, such as Peter Aerts, Semmy Schilt, Gokhan Saki, Alistair Overeem, Remy Bonjasky and Rico Verhoeven. He has also been involved in several scandals and controversies, such as assaulting a hotel owner, a businessman, and a journalist, as well as being disqualified for unsportsmanlike conduct in several fights. He is widely recognized as one of the best kickboxers of all time.

Badr Hari was born on December 8, 1984, in Amsterdam, Netherlands, to Moroccan parents from the Sous region. He started practicing kickboxing at the age of seven, under the guidance of former world champion Mousid Akamrane. He later trained at the Chakuriki Gym with Thom Harinck, and then at Mike’s Gym with Mike Passenier.

Fighting Career

Hari made his professional debut at the age of 18, and quickly rose to fame with his aggressive and explosive style. He won his first major title in 2005, when he became the K-1 Amsterdam Grand Prix champion.  

In 2007, Hari became the K-1 Heavyweight World Champion by defeating Yusuke Fujimoto by knockout in 56 seconds. He defended his title twice, against Doug Viney and Ray Sefo, before losing it to Remy Bonjasky by disqualification in 2008. Hari was penalized for kicking Bonjasky while he was down, and then punching him after the referee stopped the fight.

Hari had a chance to redeem himself in 2009, when he reached the final of the K-1 World Grand Prix for the second time. He faced Semmy Schilt, who had beaten him twice before. Hari started well, landing some powerful punches and kicks on Schilt, but was caught by a high kick that knocked him out in the first round. Schilt became the first fighter to win four K-1 World Grand Prix titles, while Hari remained a runner-up.

Hari continued to fight in K-1 until 2012, when he left the organization due to financial problems.

At Glory 76 on December 19, 2020, Hari squared off against Benjamin Adegbuyi, the second-ranked heavyweight contender in the Glory Heavyweight Championship Eliminator. Due of the COVID-19 epidemic, the fight was repeatedly postponed from its original scheduled date of June 20. At the bout, Hari was kicked by Adegbuyi and lost via KO in the third round.

On October 12, 2016, at Glory: Collision, Hari made his Glory debut against the current Heavyweight Champion Rico Verhoeven. Hari appeared to have won the first round, causing Verhoeven's nose to bleed. In the second round, Verhoeven came out swinging and fractured Hari's arm with a knee in the clinch. Verhoeven was given the technical knockout victory because Hari was unable to continue the fight.

On May 27, 2023, it was revealed that James McSweeney and Hari would square off in Glory 88's main event on September 9, 2023.  Due to the Marrakesh-Safi earthquake that occurred in Hari's country of origin in 2023, the fight was called off.

Controversies

While Badr Hari's talent was undeniable, his career was often overshadowed by a series of controversies. Perhaps the most infamous incident in his career was his rivalry with fellow kickboxer and Dutch-Moroccan fighter, Alistair Overeem. Their heated feud culminated in a notorious brawl at a press conference in 2008, casting a shadow on both fighters' careers.

Hari's temperamental nature and propensity for unsportsmanlike conduct in the ring also drew criticism. He was involved in multiple disqualifications for illegal strikes and unsportsmanlike behavior, tarnishing his reputation and alienating fans and fellow fighters alike.

Despite his immense talent, Badr Hari's career was marred by legal troubles and stints in prison. He faced various assault charges and served time in prison on multiple occasions. These legal issues disrupted his fighting career and led to extended periods of inactivity.

In 2012, Hari faced a two-year suspension from kickboxing after being found guilty of assault charges. This suspension further derailed his career and prevented him from participating in high-profile fights during his prime.

After serving his suspension and dealing with his legal troubles, Badr Hari made a comeback in 2015. He returned to the ring with a renewed focus and determination, aiming to reclaim his status as one of kickboxing's top fighters. His comeback generated considerable excitement among fans, and he continued to deliver thrilling performances.Bottom om

Conclusion

Badr Hari is a kickboxing legend who has entertained millions of fans with his spectacular performances and charismatic personality. He has also been a controversial figure who has faced legal troubles and criticism for his behavior inside and outside the ring. He has never become a champion in K-1 or Glory, but he has always been a contender and a crowd favorite. He is a fighter who never gives up and always seeks new challenges.