Abu Dhabi is once again taking center stage in the global combat sports arena as Power Slap 16: Wolverine vs Klingbeil, presented by Monster Energy, heads to the UAE capital this month.
The event, happening on October 24 at Space42 Arena, forms part of the city’s Abu Dhabi Showdown Week — a week that will culminate with UFC 321: Aspinall vs Gane at Etihad Arena.
Power Slap CEO Frank Lamicella expressed enthusiasm about returning to Abu Dhabi following last year’s success, which marked the sport’s first international debut. “Power Slap is the fastest growing combat sport,” he said. “Last year, the show was a massive success. Returning to the emirate during Abu Dhabi Showdown Week adds another tentpole event for fight fans in the region.”
The previous edition drew a sold-out crowd and over 700 million online views, establishing Abu Dhabi as a global hub for slap fighting and combat sports in general. “Fans in Abu Dhabi are invested in combat sports and the athletes that compete,” Lamicella added, noting how spectators have anticipated Power Slap’s comeback for nearly a year.
This year’s headline bout will feature reigning Light Heavyweight Champion Wolverine (5-2, 2 KOs), who has held his title for nearly 800 days, defending against Alan “The Kryptonian” Klingbeil (3-2, 2 KOs), a challenger representing a new generation of slap fighters.
“Wolverine is a legend in this sport and has always been considered one of the best in the world,” Lamicella said. “Meanwhile, Alan represents a crop of slap fighters inspired to get into the sport by Wolverine, and now he has the chance to prove he is a champion.”
Also on the card is a heavyweight clash between Dumpling (2-1-1, 1 KO) and undefeated Makini “Big Mak” Manu (4-0, 3 KOs), adding to what’s shaping up to be a high-energy night of competition.
With Power Slap 16 coinciding with Abu Dhabi’s most action-packed fight week, the emirate further cements its reputation as a global destination for combat sports. Tickets for the one-night event are now available on Ticketmaster.ae.
