May 25, 2025
Marwan Rahiki Fires Back at Doubters Ahead of Hex 35 Title Fight
Marwan "Freaky" Rahiki isn't holding back in the lead-up to his Hex Fight Series 35 showdown against seasoned grappler Sam Kakembo, where the vacant featherweight title is on the line. Speaking exclusively on the Australian MMA Podcast, the 4–0 phenom laid out his mindset, goals, and response to criticism of his grappling game.
“I wrestle every day... People say I can't grapple — that just hits my ego. But I’m not scared to wrestle. I just prefer knockouts.”
- Marwan Rahiki
Quick Rise, Big Goals
Having turned pro only in 2024, Rahiki has already finished every opponent in the first round — something he says is no accident.
“When I fought Michael Manu — he had 11 fights and I put him away in under three minutes. That’s when I knew I could compete in the UFC.”
Rahiki is gunning for a spot on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2025 and isn't hiding his ambitions.
“After a couple more first-round KOs, no one else in Contender Series will have that. I know I’ll be there this year.”
Training With the Best at Lion's Den Academy
Rahiki trains out of Lion's Den Academy alongside George Mangos, one of Australia’s top UFC-bound prospects. With Mangos vacating the Hex title to pursue Contender Series success, Rahiki sees this as his opportunity.
“I train with George [Mangos] every day. He’s already in the UFC in my eyes. Now it’s my turn to keep that belt here.”
Kakembo’s Grappling? “It’s Not a Threat”
Despite Kakembo’s decorated grappling resume and prior title fight experience, Rahiki is staying composed.
“He’s probably thinking of taking me down, but I’ve had George Mangos on my back in training trying to choke me. I’m ready.”
Although Rahiki is also booked to fight at Beatdown Promotions in July, his focus remains on one thing:
“I’m focused on Hex. I want to win this clean, no injuries. After that, we’ll see. But I’m not looking past this.”
Why You Should Watch Hex 35
- Vacant Featherweight Title on the Line
- Rahiki's First-Round KO Streak vs. Kakembo’s Grappling Grind
- Winner Could Punch Ticket to Dana White’s Contender Series
Event Details
📅 Date: May 31, 2025
📍 Location: Melbourne, Victoria
🎥 Watch: Full interview now on Australian MMA YouTube
