On Saturday, July 5th, 2025, Moroccan fighter Hamid Modar claimed a significant victory by winning the professional African championship title in K-1 kickboxing, in the under-66.8 kg category, under the banner of the WAKO PRO global organization. The fight took place in Dakar, the capital of Senegal, where Modar outclassed his opponent, Mozo Francis from Côte d’Ivoire, after five intense rounds.
With sharp tactics and clear technical superiority, Modar dictated the pace of the fight, demonstrating that Moroccan fighters are not just present, but competitive on the continental stage. This win is more than personal—it calls into question Morocco’s broader positioning in combat sports across Africa.
In the same event, Moroccan athlete Mourad El Aaroussi lost on points in a close match against Senegalese fighter Kassimir Diatta, in the under-69 kg Low Kick category.
Both fighters were technically coached by Ahmed Mellahi and Mohamed El Aaroussi, reflecting a level of preparation and professionalism worthy of Morocco’s growing international ambitions.
A turning point or isolated success?
Does Modar’s victory signal the start of a structured Moroccan project in combat sports on the continent? Are individual achievements enough, or is there a need for a strategic national framework aligned with international standards?
What’s certain is that this success must be leveraged to build long-term momentum. Morocco now has the talent—but can it turn that talent into a sustainable position of leadership in African combat sports?
