Story By: Juan Mayes, Sub Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Golder’s News And Sport

This six-time martial arts world champion nicknamed ‘Terminator’ has been charged with assault after he allegedly punched a man to the ground – fracturing his skull – for trying to steal his phone twice.

Belgian-born Youssef Boughanem, 29, was eating chips in Ixelles, a suburb south of the Belgian capital Brussels and waiting for a friend when a man reportedly tried to steal his phone.

Local media report the fighter avoided the thief’s attempt by initially slapping and pushing him away. The thief is said to have continued trying to steal his phone and the current Muay Thai Welterweight World Champion then allegedly punched him with such force the man fell to the ground.

Pictures Credit: Golders/@youssefboughanem

Local media report the impact of the fall fractured the thief’s skull and was immediately rushed to hospital. There are no updates on his current condition.

According to local media, the fighter gave his testimony to local police. Youssef reportedly said: “I thought he was going to take out a knife or a blade when I saw the thief put his hands in his pocket. That was my first reaction to defend myself.”

The fighter was reportedly charged with assault.

Youssef, brother to Yassine Boughanem, the current Muay Thai Heavyweight World Champion, recently defended his title in April of this year. He beat British fighter Joe Craven in the fourth round by a technical knockout. Boughanem has held the title since February 2018.

The investigation is ongoing.

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