Bulgarian MMA star Vladislav Kanchev made a victorious debut at the International Fight Gala Night SENSHI 26 Galdiators in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, on 17 May, delivering a spectacular win over Brazilian fighter Flavio Pina and deservedly earning the “Knockout of the Night” award.

“This was a sign of respect from the organizers, and it’s a pleasure for me to receive such a title. I have a broken thumb, but it was worth it—the victory is what matters,” the fighter shared in the studio of “Bulgaria Sutrin”.

He emphasized that it’s essential to study your opponent and develop a strategy for the match.

“I have very powerful strikes and managed to lure him into a trap, to land right between them. We started a bit rushed, but gradually I found my rhythm and timing, and things fell into place. For this match, I imagined I’d win on points—my opponent is very tough. He was cautious, didn’t dare exchange blows with me. I expected that kind of game from him. I don’t think he underestimated me,” Kanchev told Bulgaria ON AIR.

He described the feeling of a knockout as quite pleasant and highly satisfying: “You don’t give the judges a chance to take the victory away from you.”

Vladislav Kanchev also shared that he tries to accept and overcome losses more easily. He expressed deep gratitude to the audience in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, whose unwavering support gave him extra motivation to win.

“It’s very important whether I gave 100% in the match. If I did, I could accept a loss with my head held high. With experience, you begin to understand the situation better and become ready to face the challenges,” he added.

Kanchev explained that he will wear a splint on his finger for 25 days, after which he will start rehabilitation and return to training. “I can’t live without sports, and every human being should move and be active,” the fighter concluded his studio interview.

You can watch the full interview with MMA fighter Vladislav Kanchev on the Bulgaria ON AIR website.