GLORY Kickboxing and Betr launch invite-only ‘GLORY Underground’ series with May 1 debut

Global kickboxing promotion GLORY has partnered with sports media platform Betr to unveil GLORY Underground: Powered by Betr, a new invite-only fight series that blends high-level kickboxing with social media-fueled entertainment. The debut event will take place on Thursday, May 1, at Betr’s Miami headquarters and will stream live on GLORY’s YouTube channel at 7 p.m. EST.

In the lead-up to the launch, Betr personalities Derek "Betr Derek" Sullivan and Joey "Betr JoJo" Mauriello ignited speculation with a surprise storyline involving a supposed fighter signing in the Netherlands. The campaign culminated in Derek being named a coach for the new series, setting up a competitive clash against rival coach JoJo, with each leading a team of fighters in a high-stakes showdown.

Headlining the event is a championship rematch between GLORY welterweight world champion Chico Kwasi and lightweight world champion Tyjani Beztati. The two fighters previously met in a tightly contested bout at GLORY 96 that ended in a draw. 

The co-main event features rising light heavyweight Stefan Latescu of Romania facing off against Michael Boapeah, who recently made waves with a knockout win in his debut at the new weight class.

Also on the card are social media fighter Don Sno against veteran Younes Smaili, a bout between U.S. champion Gary “The Silverback” Mack and Serbian powerhouse Andrija Stankovic, and a heavyweight match between Delvin Nichols and amateur standout Demitri Lyman.

The first event will be attended by around 100 invited guests, including influencers, athletes, and celebrities, and marks the beginning of a new format for GLORY. According to GLORY CEO Marshall Zelaznik, “GLORY Underground is where sport, entertainment, and culture collide—creating a next-generation combat experience like no other.”

Betr’s Head of Media, Mike Denevi, added: “With GLORY Underground: Powered by Betr, we're combining elite-level kickboxing with creator-led storytelling to create viral, authentic moments that connect with new audiences.”

A second installment is scheduled for late summer, with future dates and cards to be revealed.