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Martin Dimitrov, 19, will compete in the WKO Open World Championships in Barnsley next week, aiming to reclaim his 82kg world title.
The big picture: Dimitrov, who moved to Suffolk from Bulgaria five years ago, has faced personal and professional challenges since winning his amateur World Kickboxing Organisation title last year.
Key details:
The championship takes place 16-18 August 2024 at the METRODOME in Barnsley
Dimitrov will fight for England against competitors from 22 other countries
He recently completed a business course at Suffolk New College and plans to start a law degree at the University of Suffolk later this year
What they're saying: Dimitrov on his last, “During my last fight – I threw a punch and I think I broke my thumb. I lost the fight on a split decision. It was the toughest decision I’ve faced. But it was a good experience and I learnt a lot from it. I got knocked down. But I got back up and proved to myself that I’m not a quitter - and I almost knocked my opponent out."
Speaking candidly about coping with a first loss, he said, "I was really low after that fight. My dad told me I need to give it up. Then I went back to the gym a few days later and talked to my coach [Gary Staff] and I was devastated. People look at you differently when you lose - and it was a wake-up call. But my coaches said don’t worry about it and don’t take losing personally. So, I went back to training and now I can’t let it go and I’m ready to go in August.”
Between the lines: Dimitrov has overcome recent setbacks, including:
A split decision loss in his last fight in Great Yarmouth, where he sustained a thumb injury
Contemplating leaving the sport after the defeat
Pressure from his father to give up kickboxing
Craig Shimmon, head of marketing at Suffolk New College, said: "Martin has been a committed student who has been successful both inside and outside of the classroom. We wish him all the best."
The bottom line: Despite challenges, Dimitrov remains committed to his sport, training six days a week while working in sales and business consultancy before he continues his studies. Good luck, Martin!
Get involved: If you're interested in sponsoring Martin, contact him directly at martindimitrov2432@gmail.com.
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