When striking royalty steps into the MMA cage, fireworks are guaranteed—and Youssef Boughanem didn’t disappoint. The Muay Thai legend faced his toughest test yet at BRAVE CF 90, taking on seasoned French MMA fighter Johan Van de Hel in a showdown that pushed him to the limit.
The Moroccan superstar emerged victorious, but not without a few heart-pounding moments that showcased the steep learning curve for even the most decorated of champions.
Known for his unparalleled striking ability as a multiple-time Muay Thai and Kickboxing world champion, Youssef controlled much of the fight with his precise and devastating stand-up game.
However, Johan's grappling skills added a layer of unpredictability, nearly flipping the script in a nail-biting second round. The Frenchman locked in a submission attempt that had fans holding their breath, but Youssef’s grit and determination saw him escape danger and turn the tide.
By the third round, Youssef reclaimed control, leveraging his striking dominance to seal a decision victory and extend his flawless MMA record to 3-0. The win not only solidified his position as an emerging force in MMA but also highlighted his willingness to embrace the sport’s complexities.
“I made history in Muay Thai, but I am still a beginner in MMA,” Youssef humbly admitted post-fight. “I have a lot of respect for the people who fight inside the cage. I want to fight soon, of course, but I also need to train.”
Youssef’s journey in MMA began just a year ago, with his professional debut in 2024. Since then, he has racked up an impressive three wins, including two finishes, and continues to prove that his transition from striking to MMA is more than just a bold experiment. Before BRAVE CF 90, he made waves at BRAVE CF 83 with a stunning finish against Saad Touijar in the Netherlands, signaling that his ambitions in the cage are as fierce as his legacy in the ring.
As Youssef eyes 2025 with a mix of caution and confidence, one thing is clear: the king of Muay Thai is carving a new throne in the world of MMA, and the journey is just getting started.