A true fight spectacle awaits fans on May 30 at 19:30, as SENSHI 31 Gladiators transforms the Ancient Theatre in Plovdiv into a stage of power, technique, and relentless spirit. The main highlight of the night is the lightweight Grand Prix (70 kg) — eight fighters, three bouts in one evening, and only one champion. It’s a brutal test of endurance, strategy, and mindset, where only the strongest prevail.
One of Bulgaria’s standout kickboxers, Mihail Velchovski, will represent his country in one of the reserve bouts. A victory over Spain’s Andres Casado could earn him a place in the main bracket, should any of the eight contenders withdraw due to injury or other circumstances.
Boec.bg caught up with Velchovski to talk about his preparation and readiness for what could become one of the biggest challenges of his career.
“As part of my preparation, I had the honor to take part in the fifth specialized SENSHI camp in Varna, where I trained alongside some of the best fighters in the lighter divisions,” Velchovski shared. “It’s extremely valuable because you face all kinds of styles — taller fighters, shorter ones, orthodox and southpaw — and the instructors are true legends.”
Looking ahead to his bout in Plovdiv, Velchovski is fully focused: “My opponent is a tough Spanish fighter. We’re studying him carefully with my coach and preparing accordingly.”
He emphasized that preparing for a Grand Prix format is on another level: “This kind of tournament requires a completely different approach — the training is much more intense. I’ve been focusing heavily on my conditioning because I want to be ready to fight three times in one night.”
Together with his team, he is also analyzing potential opponents in the bracket: “All the fighters are high-level, but if I had to point out a few names — Samo Petje, Aissam Chadid, and Dragomir Petrov stand out.”
Velchovski also had a message for the fans: “If you want adrenaline and high-level fights, come to Plovdiv on May 30. It’s going to be an incredible show.”
