A true combat spectacle and epic clashes await fight fans on May 30 at 19:30, when SENSHI 31 Gladiators will transform the Ancient Theatre in Plovdiv into an arena of power, technique, and fighting spirit. The highlight of the night is the lightweight Grand Prix tournament (70 kg) — eight fighters, three fights in one evening, and only one champion. It is a test of endurance, strategy, and character, where only the strongest survive.
Bulgarian kickboxer Dragomir Petrov will step into the tournament determined to defend his country’s honor and fight for the historic Grand Prix title. The team of Boec.bg spoke with Petrov to learn more about his preparation and mindset ahead of one of the biggest challenges of his career.
As part of his training camp, Petrov took part in the fifth invitation-only international SENSHI training camp in Varna, led by kickboxing legends Albert Kraus and Andy Souwer. He described the experience as something special: “The camp is unique because only top fighters are selected. The training includes conditioning, sparring, and fight strategy — everything is on a completely different level. It’s an honor for me to learn from Andy Souwer. I watched him when I was younger — he’s one of my favorite fighters. I’m grateful to learn directly from a legend.”
Petrov also reflected honestly on his recent setbacks, having recorded two losses on the SENSHI stage last year. “When you fight at the highest level, losses are part of the game,” he said. “But now I’m focused on the future. I’m training hard and working to improve.”
For the Bulgarian fighter, participation in the SENSHI Grand Prix is a dream come true — and one he is determined not to waste. “I have something to prove. I’ve lost to three of the fighters in this tournament, and I want to take my revenge. I want to win and make my family and the Bulgarian fans proud.”
Preparing for a Grand Prix tournament requires a completely different approach. Petrov is getting ready both physically and mentally for three fights in one night. “You can prepare specifically for your first opponent, but you never know what comes next. That’s why I focus on my own game.”
According to him, SENSHI currently gathers some of the best fighters in the 70 kg division. “If I want to be the best, I have to be ready to beat all of them,” he stated confidently.
Petrov also sent a message to the fans, inviting them to be part of the atmosphere in Plovdiv: “I call on everyone who wants to watch high-level, exciting fights to come to SENSHI 31 Gladiators. I count on the crowd’s support to lift me in the tough moments.”
With determination and passion, the Bulgarian fighter made one promise clear: “I will leave my heart in the ring to become the winner.”
