British kickboxer Nathan Cook will make his debut at the international fight gala SENSHI 32 on July 11, when he faces Albania's Francesko Xhaja in a heavyweight bout. Speaking to Fight Sport Insider 247. Cook shares how he is preparing for his first appearance in the organization, what he expects from the upcoming fight, and why his biggest goal is to deliver exciting battles for the fans.
Cook accepted the fight on approximately three weeks' notice, but says that does not concern him. He explains that over the past year he has completely changed the way he prepares by staying fight-ready all year round.
"This fight came together only about three weeks in advance, so there wasn't a traditional training camp specifically for Francesko Xhaja. Over the past year we've completely changed our mindset. The goal is to stay ready at all times, so training has become one continuous camp rather than preparation for one particular opponent."
The British fighter admits he does not know his opponent in great detail but is aware that Xhaja has already shared the ring with his previous opponent, Rhys Brudenell.
"That tells me he's competing at the level I want to be fighting at. In the heavyweight division, I always expect an explosive fight where one clean shot can change everything. I'm expecting a hard battle where both of us will be looking for the knockout."
Cook also reveals that the past year has been the most difficult period of his life after competing in a major international tournament while injured and shortly after losing his father. He believes those experiences made him mentally much stronger.
"Mentally, it made me much stronger. I went into tournament week carrying an injury while also dealing with the loss of my father. After getting through that, I don't think there's anything in fight preparation that will ever feel more difficult."
He says the biggest lesson from that experience was the need to improve his boxing.
"One of the things that stood out to me the most was the level of boxing. That's why over the past year we've put a huge emphasis on developing that part of my game, and the improvement has been massive."
The upcoming bout will also be his first under the SENSHI ruleset, but the Brit is confident he will adapt quickly.
"Over the last year my training has become much more varied. I've focused far more on boxing and K-1 rather than only Muay Thai. That's helped me become a more adaptable fighter with more weapons, so changing the rules shouldn't be a problem."
Cook is also looking forward to competing in the unique atmosphere of the beach arena near Varna.
"I think it's an amazing opportunity. I don't believe it will affect my performance or the pressure at all. If anything, it makes the experience even more exciting. This sport isn't just about proving you're the toughest person in the ring—it's also about creating unforgettable memories."
The British heavyweight describes his fighting style as unusual for his division.
"I'm built like a heavyweight, but I like to move like a lighter fighter. I enjoy surprising people with explosive movement, jumping techniques, and powerful kicks. I want fans to remember that heavyweights can be athletic, exciting, and unpredictable."
Cook does not hide that a victory at SENSHI 32 could open the door to more appearances in the organization.
"I'd love a strong performance here to create more opportunities with SENSHI. It's a fantastic organization, and I want to perform for the SENSHI fans and build my name here."
In his interview with FSI247, he emphasizes that reaching the top of the world rankings is not his primary motivation.
"I want to put on exciting fights. I'm not obsessed with becoming the best fighter in the world. If that happens, great. But my real motivation is to fight as often as possible and give the fans entertaining bouts."
The British fighter hopes his appearance on July 11 will end in the way he enjoys most.
"I'm proud of my high finishing rate. For me, any night that ends with a knockout or technical knockout is a successful one. If I can put on an exciting fight and leave with another finish like that, it'll definitely be something to celebrate."
SENSHI 32 Grand Prix will take place on July 11 from 7:30 p.m. at the beach arena in the resort of St. St. Constantine and Helena, near Varna, Bulgaria. The highlight of the fight gala will be the SENSHI Grand Prixtournament in the up to 85 kg division, where eight elite fighters will compete in a direct knockout format. To lift the trophy, the champion will have to win three consecutive fights in a single evening. The fight card also features two super fights in the up to 75 kg and over 95 kg divisions.
Tickets for the event are available via Eventim.bg.
You can watch SENSHI 32 Grand Prix live and free on:
- SENSHI's YouTube channel and on Triller TV - Globally
- Swerve Combat for USA and Canada
- Bulgaria ON AIR, DIEMA, Max Sport 1 for Bulgaria
