Palestine’s Abdul Kareem Al-Selwady set for inaugural Abu Dhabi Extreme Championship

ABU DHABI: The inaugural Abu Dhabi Extreme Championship is set to attract the attention of MMA and grappling fans in the Middle East with a No-Gi Welterweight bout between Abdul Kareem Al-Selwady of Palestine and Islam Reda of Egypt.

The event, organized in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Jiu Jitsu Pro, will take place at the Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City on Oct. 20.

Al-Selwady has become known for his grappling skills, honed over the years as he transitioned from kickboxing to MMA.

His familiarity with the ADXC cage through previous MMA fights sets him apart from competitors less accustomed to this environment and could give him an advantage on the night.

He said: “The cage offers different techniques and movements, and I can make my opponents feel trapped and claustrophobic. I’m a pressure fighter, and I’ll use that to my advantage. Winning is the ultimate goal. I’ve traveled all the way from (the) United States to Abu Dhabi to win.

“For me, being a part of history is important, and participating in the first event of its kind in Abu Dhabi is a big deal,” he added.

“I’m honored to be a part of it. I’ve put in a lot of hard work, training rigorously to ensure I perform well in Abu Dhabi. I’m committed to putting on a great show for ADXC and look forward to its continued growth.”

Abu Dhabi holds a special place in Al-Selwady’s heart as previously competed in the UAE capital as part of the Brave Combat Federation, an experience he fondly recalls with a victory.