Tarec Saffiedine is one of the most technically gifted strikers in MMA history, best known for his devastating leg kicks that secured him the final Strikeforce Welterweight Championship.
A pioneer for Belgian mixed martial arts, “Sponge” competed at the highest levels of the sport against elite competition in the UFC, Strikeforce, and DREAM.
In this article, you will know Tarec Saffiedine’s net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship, and more.
Tarec Saffiedine’s Biography
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tarec Saffiedine |
| Date of Birth | September 6, 1986 |
| Age | 39 |
| Education | Background in Shihaishinkai Karate |
| Nationality | Belgian |
| Height | 5’10” (1.78 m) |
| Weight | 170 lbs (Welterweight) |
| Turned Pro | 2007 |
| Net Worth | Approx. $1 Million – $1.5 Million |
| Career Earnings | Est. $500,000 – $750,000+ |
| Wife | Silvia Gan |
| Instagram Profile | @tarecsaffiedine |
| Twitter Profile | @tarecfighter |
Early Career
Tarec Saffiedine was born in Brussels, Belgium, to a Lebanese father and a Belgian mother.
His journey into martial arts began somewhat uniquely—inspired by Japanese comic books (manga), he started training in Shihaishinkai Karate, a discipline that emphasizes stand-up striking. This foundation laid the groundwork for his future success as a technical striker.
Realizing that to reach the pinnacle of combat sports he needed to expand his horizons, Saffiedine moved to the United States. He eventually found a home at Team Quest in Temecula, California, training under legends like Dan Henderson.
He turned professional in 2007, quickly racking up wins in regional promotions in Belgium and North America before earning a spot in Japan’s DREAM organization, where he showcased his potential on an international stage.
Professional Career
Saffiedine’s career is defined by his tenure in Strikeforce, where he became a legitimate star. He won key fights against solid veterans like Scott Smith and Tyler Stinson before earning a title shot.
In the promotion’s final event in January 2013, he delivered a masterclass performance against Nate Marquardt, battering the champion’s legs with relentless kicks to win the Strikeforce Welterweight Championship via unanimous decision.
This victory cemented his legacy as the last-ever welterweight champion of the organization.
Transitioning to the UFC, Saffiedine made an impressive debut in Singapore by defeating Hyun Gyu Lim in a “Fight of the Night” performance. Although injuries often interrupted his momentum, he competed against the division’s best, including Rory MacDonald and Rafael dos Anjos.
After leaving the UFC in 2019, he shifted his focus. As of 2026, he remains active in the MMA community as a highly respected coach, training the next generation of fighters at facilities like Dan Henderson’s Athletic Fitness Center.
Tarec Saffiedine’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Tarec Saffiedine has an estimated net worth of approximately $1 million to $1.5 million. This wealth was accumulated through his fight purses in major organizations, performance bonuses, and his post-fighting career as a coach and gym owner.
Fight Purses
| Opponent | Event | Result | Estimated Purse |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyun Gyu Lim | UFC Fight Night 34 | Win | ~$90,000 (inc. bonus) |
| Nate Marquardt | Strikeforce Finale | Win | ~$70,000+ (Championship Win) |
| Rory MacDonald | UFC Fight Night 54 | Loss | ~$30,000 (Show money) |
| Jake Ellenberger | UFC on Fox 18 | Win | ~$80,000 (Show + Win) |
| Rafael dos Anjos | UFC Fight Night 111 | Loss | ~$40,000 |
Career Earnings
| Year | Organization | Estimated Income |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Strikeforce/UFC | ~$100,000+ |
| 2014 | UFC | ~$120,000+ |
| 2016 | UFC | ~$110,000+ |
| 2017 | UFC | ~$40,000+ |
| Post-2019 | Coaching/Business | Undisclosed (Business Revenue) |
Endorsements
During his active career, Saffiedine was sponsored by major MMA brands such as Clinch Gear, a company closely associated with his mentor Dan Henderson. He also represented Team Quest and various nutrition and equipment brands.
In his post-fight career, he co-owns mmanytt.be, a Belgian MMA news outlet, further diversifying his income streams.
Career Stats
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Record | 16 Wins – 7 Losses |
| Knockouts | 1 |
| Submissions | 5 |
| Decisions | 10 |
| Stance | Orthodox / Switch |
| Major Title | Strikeforce Welterweight Champion (2013) |
FAQs
1. What is Tarec Saffiedine doing now?
Tarec Saffiedine is currently a full-time coach and entrepreneur. He trains fighters at Dan Henderson’s Athletic Fitness Center and co-owns an MMA news platform in Belgium. He is helping develop the next wave of talent using his elite striking knowledge.
2. Did Tarec Saffiedine win a UFC belt?
No, he did not win a UFC title. However, he was the final Strikeforce Welterweight Champion, defeating Nate Marquardt in 2013 just before the promotion merged with the UFC.
3. Who is Tarec Saffiedine’s wife?
His wife is Silvia Gan. They have been married for several years and have two children together. Saffiedine often credits his family as his main support system throughout his career.
4. What is Tarec Saffiedine’s fighting style?
Saffiedine is a technical striker with a background in Shihaishinkai Karate. He is renowned for his powerful leg kicks, which he used to dismantle opponents like Nate Marquardt, and his ability to switch stances fluidly.
5. What is Tarec Saffiedine’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated to be around $1 million to $1.5 million. This includes his earnings from a decade-long fighting career in top organizations like Strikeforce and the UFC, as well as his current business ventures.
