As the lights of Rotterdam prepare to illuminate GLORY 104, all eyes will be on German Middleweight contender Sergej Braun. Ranked among the division`s elite, Braun is set to face the formidable Dutch-Moroccan kickboxer Iliass Hammouche. This isn`t just another fight; it`s a chapter in Braun`s compelling narrative of resilience, heritage, and an unyielding pursuit of kickboxing`s highest honor.
The Crucible of Defeat: A Champion`s Reflection
It`s been a year since Braun last stepped into the GLORY ring, a year marked by introspection following his title challenge against GLORY Middleweight champion Donovan Wisse. That loss, rather than breaking him, forged a sharper resolve. “The fight against Donovan Wisse only made me stronger,” Braun reflects, acknowledging areas for growth. He didn`t merely dwell on the setback; he returned home to successfully defend his WAKO World Championship title for the fourth time, a clear testament to his enduring prowess and champion`s spirit.
From Kyokushin Dojo to Kickboxing Arena: A Legacy Inspired
Braun`s journey to kickboxing prominence is unique, rooted deeply in the disciplined world of Kyokushin Karate. His transition echoes the legendary paths of K-1 pioneers like Andy Hug, Semmy Schilt, Glaube Feitosa, Nicolas Pettas, and Francisco Filho. For a 13-year-old Braun, watching these karateka dominate the K-1 Grand Prix wasn`t just entertainment; it was a revelation. “When all those men from Kyokushin Karate fought, it always touched me emotionally. I always thought to myself, I will be just like those guys,” he recounts, a spark ignited that would define his career. These icons remain profound role models, their influence evident in Braun`s unique, often spectacular, techniques within the kickboxing realm.
The Imminent Clash: Braun vs. Hammouche at GLORY 104
Now, Braun prepares for Iliass Hammouche, a fighter known for his high-paced, aggressive Dutch kickboxing style. This bout promises a fascinating clash of philosophies – Braun`s foundational karate precision against Hammouche`s relentless pressure. Having observed Hammouche`s “crazy” fight against Braun`s friend, Mesud Selimovic (a bout that saw Hammouche knocked down twice before delivering a spinning back-fist knockout), Braun is well aware of his opponent`s strengths and unpredictability. “He is a good fighter, and at GLORY 104 two different styles will clash. I’m really looking forward to the fight,” Braun states, emphasizing his rigorous preparation.
Fighting in Hammouche`s home country, the Netherlands, brings its own set of challenges. The roar of a partisan crowd, undoubtedly favoring the local fighter, is a dynamic Braun has come to embrace. “By now I’m used to fighting in The Netherlands and having the whole crowd against me,” he quips, adding with a seasoned warrior`s pragmatism, “I’m a guest there, and of course it’s clear that I have to do much more to earn a victory than my opponent who fights in front of his home crowd.”
A Call for Balance: The Middleweight`s Plea
While Braun focuses on his immediate opponent, he hasn`t shied away from addressing broader concerns within GLORY. His current ranking (No. 3 by GLORY, No. 5 by Beyond Kickboxing) suggests he should be facing top-tier contenders. The booking against unranked Hammouche, while offering a fresh challenge, raises questions about matchmaking strategy. Braun openly admits, “I also expected to get a fight against one of those three guys,” referring to potential rematches with Serkan Ozcaglayan or a trilogy with Michael Boapeah, or even a second dance with Mohamed Touchassie, whose jaw he famously broke with his signature “Braun Buster” spinning back kick at GLORY 92.
More significantly, Braun vocalizes a frustration shared by many outside the heavyweight division: GLORY`s apparent hyper-focus on its biggest men. “It is important that fighters compete regularly… You need at least four fights a year to stay active as a fighter. Less than that, unfortunately, doesn’t make sense.” He laments the lack of opportunities for other weight classes, including his own. “I would like to see the other weight classes get the same attention as the heavyweights, so that the fighters can also develop well.”
This sentiment culminates in a strong endorsement for an 8-man Middleweight tournament, a format not seen in GLORY`s middleweight ranks since 2014. “I would really love to have an 8-man tournament in our weight division,” Braun asserts, recognizing its thrill for both fans and fighters. It`s a call for GLORY to diversify its spotlight and allow other divisions to showcase their depth and talent.
Veteran Wisdom and Future Horizons
At 36, Sergej Braun is a seasoned veteran, but his hunger for gold remains undiminished. His ultimate goal is clear and concise: “My goal is the GLORY title at 85 kg!” Beyond personal accolades, Braun views his journey through a broader lens. He aims “to be a great role model for my children and my students, and to show them that in life you must never give up as long as you are breathing.” It`s a powerful message, transcending the confines of the ring and extending to the principles he embodies every day.
As he prepares for his return at GLORY 104, Sergej Braun is not just fighting for himself, but for the recognition of his division and the enduring spirit of martial arts. He promises to “give everything from my side to deliver a strong fight,” leaving no doubt about his intent to leave Rotterdam as the victor. For the fans, his message is simple yet profound: “Enjoy life and be good role models for the young generation.” A sentiment fitting for a man who continues to define what it means to be a modern-day kickboxing legend.
