One of the stars of international kickboxing, Samo Petje, is preparing for one of the biggest challenges of his career. On May 30, the ancient atmosphere of the Ancient Theatre of Plovdiv, Bulgaria will host the elimination tournament SENSHI Grand Prix in the lightweight division up to 70 kg, part of SENSHI 31 Gladiators.
In a special interview for SENSHI Fight Talk, Petje revealed details about his unique training regimen and the motivation behind dropping to a lower weight class than the one he usually competes in to chase the 70 kg Grand Prix trophy.
A Laboratory in the Mountains and 100 km for Six Rounds of Sparring
Despite his status as a world-class fighter, Samo Petje remains firmly grounded — not only figuratively, but literally. He lives and trains in Slovenia, where he combines professional sport with beekeeping and a peaceful life surrounded by nature. His path to the top, however, has required tremendous sacrifices.
"In Slovenia, I only have one or two people I can train with. I often travel more than 100 kilometers one way just to get in five or six rounds of sparring. That is true love for the sport. When I was younger, I drove to Italy every week to train with the Petrosyan brothers. I paid for fuel, tolls — everything, all for the sake of training," Petje shared.
He refers to his training facility, located in an old school building, as his "laboratory." "I love training by myself and working on the details I need to correct. Every day, I learn how to become better," he added.
The Strategy for Plovdiv: The Complete Fighter
Samo Petje is known for his hybrid fighting style, combining elements of several martial arts — Muay Thai, kickboxing, karate, and classical boxing. For the SENSHI 31 Gladiators Grand Prix tournament in Plovdiv, he is relying precisely on his unpredictability.
"I think no one can truly read my game. I prepare individually for each fighter and adapt the second I step into the ring. I always do something better than my opponent."
Regarding his move down to the lighter division for the Grand Prix tournament, Petje is confident: "I usually weigh around 72 to 73 kilograms. I know I can fight equally well at both 75 and 70 kg. I feel powerful and I am ready for the Grand Prix."
The Psychological Edge
At 34 years old, the Slovenian fighter demonstrates a maturity that helps him avoid burnout before major competitions. For him, the key lies in balance and a scientific approach to recovery.
"I don't put pressure on myself mentally. When I train, I give 100 percent of myself, but when training is over, I don't think only about fighting. If you focus solely on that, the pressure will burn you out. When you are free of pressure and recover well, you become better every day."
On May 30 in Plovdiv, Bulgaria fans will find out whether Petje's "laboratory" has produced the right formula for success against the best fighters in the division. One thing is certain — the Slovenian "Diamond" is not coming simply to participate, but to reinforce his reputation as a fighter who recognizes no limits.
SENSHI 31 Gladiators promises spectacular clashes and high tension under the stars of the ancient city in Bulgaria, and Samo Petje is one of the names guaranteeing world-class action in the ring.
SENSHI 31 Gladiators is organized in cooperation with the KWU International Professional League, as well as with the special support of Armeec Insurance Company, MAX Sport, Bulgaria Air, M Car Group – BMW dealer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Service, and St. St. Constantine and Helena Holding.
The media partners of SENSHI 31 Gladiators are Boec.bg and Boec.com, Bulgaria ON AIR, MAX Sport, TrillerTV, Beyond Kickboxing, Gol.bg, Sportal.bg, Dir.bg, Topsport.bg, КWUSENSHI.com, KWUnion.com, KyokushinКarate.News, Fighto.News and Fight Sports Insider 24/7.
