Bulgarian fighter Ali Yuzeir enters the SENSHI Grand Prix with maximum motivation and one clear goal – to reach the top of the professional SENSHI promotion. At just 27 years of age, he has already built an impressive résumé, including the 2018 Muay Thai World Championship title, the 2015 European Championship silver medal, and the 2017 Balkan Best Fighters K-1 championship belt. Having recorded two victories in SENSHI, both by spectacular knockout, Yuzeir is more determined than ever to showcase his aggressive fighting style and prove that he belongs among the most dominant athletes in his division.
The Bulgarian champion's next appearance will come at the highly anticipated SENSHI 32 Grand Prix. The international fight gala will take place on July 11, 2026, starting at 7:30 PM EET /12:30 PM EST/ at the beach arena in the St. St. Constantine and Helena resort, Varna, Bulgaria. Tickets for the event are available through Eventim.bg.
Speaking about his mindset ahead of the demanding tournament format, Ali Yuzeir expressed complete confidence in his preparation and tactical approach. In a special interview with Gong.bg, he explained that the key to success in three potential bouts in one evening lies in his comprehensive strategy and unwavering determination, which never allows him to give up. The fighter believes that his iron discipline and intense daily training will lead him to the Grand Prix title, and he feels fully prepared to face any opponent who steps into the ring.
Do you believe anyone in this extremely challenging tournament has what it takes to stop you on your way to the top?
I fully understand that this tournament features exceptionally strong and dangerous opponents. Nevertheless, I have complete faith in my own abilities and truly believe I can defeat every one of them.
Which opponent would you most like to face during the tournament?
I would most like to fight Joshua Akingbade because he defeated Sergey Braun earlier this year. I lost to Braun in the past when we fought for the WAKO Pro title, so facing Akingbade would be a great opportunity for me.
Why do you believe you will become the next SENSHI Grand Prix champion?
Because I never miss a training session and I work extremely hard every single day. I have dedicated myself entirely to my preparation because I know that is the only way to build a successful future in the ring.
What will be your greatest weapon in the upcoming Grand Prix?
My greatest weapon will be my tactical preparation. I have developed a special and carefully planned strategy that will allow me to stay physically and mentally strong throughout three consecutive fights.
What do you consider the most dangerous aspect of your fighting style that makes your opponents worry?
I believe my greatest strength is my character and the fact that I never give up, no matter how difficult the situation becomes. In the ring, I always aim to apply relentless pressure, while my most dangerous physical weapon is my powerful knee strikes.
Which victory in your career means the most to you and why?
My most important victory is my latest one at SENSHI 29 against Karim Mabrouk because it marked a very successful beginning of my journey in the organization. I also highly value my victory over Artyom Livadari in the FEA Grand Prix final, which remains one of the most memorable moments of my career.
Has professional sport and years of constant battles taken anything away from you?
The only thing I feel the sport has taken from me—or rather still owes me—is the opportunity to have a rematch against Maxim Zaplitniy of Moldova. It is a fight that I still very much want to happen.
