More than 470 people from 35 countries. Over 420 participants from 27 nations in the training camp alone. 11 legendary guest instructors from six countries. 18 fighters from 13 nations stepping into the ring. Four days that transformed Varna, Bulgaria, into a global striking arena.
This was SENSHI 30 Grand Prix Week — the anniversary edition that elevated the standard once again. From 26 February to 1 March 2026, the 30th edition of SENSHI became far more than a fight night. It was a complete fight week experience — uniting elite competition, international media presence and one of the largest training camps in SENSHI history.
One of the Biggest SENSHI Training Camps So Far
Before the spotlights and the Grand Prix tournament, the real work happened behind the scenes.
The First SENSHI Open Training Camp for 2026 brought together more than 420 athletes from 27 countries, guided by 11 world-renowned instructors. Fighters didn’t just train — they absorbed decades of elite experience from icons of the sport.
Among them were Shihan Semmy Schilt, Ernesto Hoost, Albert Kraus, Andy Souwer and Shihan Nicholas Pettas — all legends of K-1 and key figures in the KWU SENSHI leadership.
Kyokushin excellence was represented by Sensei Jan Soukup, Sensei Tariel Nikoleishvili, Shihan Asen Asenov, Sensei Zahari Damyanov, and Sensei Petar Martinov.
For the first time, six-time World Kickboxing & Muay Thai Champion Ray Sefo joined the camp as a special guest instructor, bringing heavyweight authority and global prestige to an already stacked lineup. This wasn’t just preparation. It was direct access to the DNA of elite striking.
The Build-Up: Weigh-Ins, Face-Offs and Open Media Training
The official start of Fight Week welcomed athletes, coaches, media and team members from all around the world: Austria, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, Czech Republic, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Italy, Kosovo, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Montenegro, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the USA, Scotland, Japan, New Zealand and Bulgaria.
Journalists from the Netherlands, Scotland, the USA and Bulgaria reported on-site, while additional coverage came from Italy, Serbia and beyond online, helping the combat sports around the world to be a part of everything.
The Official Weigh-Ins, Face-Offs and SENSHI Press Conference ignited the competitive fire. Fighters locked eyes. Statements were made, promises were given. And later on – kept – with Zhulien Rikov (Bulgaria) keeping his promise to Albert Kraus to become the first SENSHI Grand Prix Champion in the 75 kg category.
During the Open Media Training, the stars of the card showcased their speed, power, and signature combinations, offering media and fans a preview of the battles ahead.
Grant Waterman, the unmistakable voice of SENSHI, documented the entire four-day experience through the SENSHI YouTube podcast formats “Legend Talk” and “Fight Talks,” delivering exclusive interviews, analysis, and fight predictions that deepened the global reach of the event.
SENSHI 30 Grand Prix – 18 Fighters, One Anniversary Stage
When fight night arrived, 18 elite athletes from 13 countries stepped into the arena determined to etch their names into SENSHI history. They delivered a night worthy of a 30th anniversary, and the fans were more than pleased.
Thirty editions in, SENSHI has evolved into more than a fight promotion. It is a global platform for elite striking, education, and tradition — and SENSHI 30 proved that its international momentum is only accelerating.
The entire SENSHI team extends its sincere gratitude to everyone who was part of this historic experience — fighters, trainers, instructors, media representatives, for being part of unforgettable chapter that will remain forever in the legacy of SENSHI.
