Rade Opacic is a strong fighter in the heavyweight division and a force to be reckoned with in the kickboxing world. Having started his martial arts journey in 2012, Rade quickly made a name for himself with his aggressive fighting style and unrelenting pursuit of victory. His primary discipline is kickboxing, and his approach is characterized by powerful strikes and relentless forward pressure, always looking for the knockout. The Serbian fighter is proud of his nickname – “The Second Round Killer”, and among his most outstanding career-defining achievements, he puts his revenge win over Guto Inocente, as well as his victory against Iraj Azizpour, which positioned him as the No. 1 contender in ONE Championship’s kickboxing heavyweight division.
Inspired by legendary fighters like Badr Hari, Daniel Ghita, and Semmy Schilt, Rade’s passion for fighting was ignited early on, driven by both his coaches and his admiration for the sport’s greatest athletes. This will be his second appearance at the SENSHI Fighting Gala, following his spectacular debut in July when he defeated Daniel Lentier. You can see his duel with the Cameroonian in the ring at SENSHI 22 here.
Especially for TOP SPORT media, the Serbian told us how his preparation was going before the SENSHI 23 Fight Gala, which will take place on September 7 in Varna, Bulgaria.
How long have you been training in martial arts?
I’ve been training in kickboxing since 2012. I also practiced taekwondo as a young boy, and then I got into kickboxing with all my heart and soul.
Can you describe a typical day of training for you before SENSHI 23?
Morning running or strength training, followed by evening kickboxing training. I prefer sparring, so I enjoy the challenge and intensity.
What has been your most memorable fight so far, and why?
I would definitely say it was the fight against K-1 and Glory legend Errol Zimmerman, where I won by spinning kick knockout.
Who has been your toughest opponent?
I would say that so far, this was Roman Kryklia.
How do you stay motivated during tough times?
Fighting is brutal, so tough times are standard for us fighters. I’m motivated by my desire to beat my opponent and strive for new titles in the heaviest weight class in the professional ring. Performing in front of a big crowd gives me more motivation.
What advice would you give to aspiring fighters?
Focus on training and always move forward, no matter what.
How are you feeling about your upcoming fight?
I am very happy and thrilled. I’m facing an opponent I wanted to fight a long time ago.
What message do you have for your opponent?
Get as ready as you can!
The 23rd edition of SENSHI is organized in cooperation with the KWU International Professional League and with the special support of Armeec Insurance Company, MAX Sport, Bulgaria Air, M Car Group—a BMW dealer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Service, and St. St. Constantine and Helena Holding.
The media partners of SENSHI 23 are Boec.BG and Boec.COM, Bulgaria ON AIR, MAX Sport, the American online combat sports television TrillerTV, Dir.bg, YouTube channel KOD Sport, Kwunion.com, Kyokushin Karate News, Fighto.News and Novinata.bg.
