Kooheji marks PFL debut with statement win for Bahrain
TDT | Manama
Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com
Bahrain’s Hamza Kooheji emerged as one of the standout performers at PFL MENA: Dubai – Pride of Arabia at the Coca-Cola Arena, earning a unanimous decision victory over Morocco’s Taha Bendaoud on Sunday night. All three judges scored it 29–28 as he advanced to the featherweight semi-finals.
The win marked a strong response from Kooheji following his last outing, where he suffered a fourth-round TKO defeat on home soil in Bahrain last November against Serbia’s Borislav Nikolić. This time, he appeared far more composed over three rounds, showing improved distance control, sharper decision-making, and a disciplined approach under pressure.
After the win, Kooheji was emotional in his post-fight remarks, dedicating the victory to Bahrain and its leadership.
“First and foremost, this hardearned victory belongs to the Kingdom of Bahrain and to His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa.”
He also acknowledged Shaikh Khalid’s absence from cageside, emphasizing that his support remains deeply felt.
“I truly wished His Highness could have been here with us tonight, but we completely understand that his demanding schedule and official responsibilities kept him away. He is always with us in spirit, and his unwavering support remains our greatest motivation.”
Looking ahead, Kooheji made it clear that his focus remains firmly on the title.
“Our focus is now entirely on the finals. We will keep pushing forward, and with the right preparation, we look forward to having His Highness by our side to witness the culmination of this journey. The goal remains unchanged: to bring the championship home to Bahrain.”
Elsewhere on the card, Bahrain’s Hamad Marhoon came up just short in a split-decision loss to Jordan’s Saher Qasmieh (3-0), with scorecards of 29–28, 28–29, 29–28 in a flyweight bout that went the distance.
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