Ivaylo Panev, a 26-year-old kickboxer, will step into the SENSHI 26 Gladiators ring for the first time in front of a home crowd in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. A six-time Bulgarian kickboxing champion, two-time national Muay Thai champion, and WAKO World Cup winner, Panev is set for a heated rematch against Greek fighter Giannis Eminov.
“My opponent is dangerous, a strong and skilled fighter. I’ve faced him before. I can’t wait for this rematch. The strategy is in place, and I’m working hard on it. I’m extremely adaptable to any fighting style. The responsibility is mine, both to myself and to my coach. Fighting in my hometown raises the stakes — there will be many friends and family in the crowd, which will intensify the moment emotionally. I’m sure I’ll handle it,” Panev shared during a live appearance on the “Bulgaria Sutrin” morning show.
The professional athlete expressed his determination to avenge a previous loss to the same opponent and to deliver a spectacular performance for the fans. Their epic rematch will take place on May 17 at the Ancient Theatre in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, and Panev is ready to give his all to claim victory and earn the crowd’s applause at the International Gala Fight Night.
“SENSHI is a prestigious name, and I’ll try to make the knockout as beautiful as possible,” he said in his interview with Bulgaria ON AIR.
Panev added that his coach advises him to stay calm and follow instructions precisely. He credited the sport for teaching him discipline — something that drives him to keep pushing for new achievements.
“Losses are an inseparable part of the game. I’ve learned how to lose,” he noted, adding that he is motivated to prove to himself and his coach that he is the better fighter, while also emphasizing that he never underestimates his opponents.
You can watch the full interview and video of the Plovdiv-based kickboxer’s appearance on the morning show on the Bulgaria ON AIR website.
