Joint Events Mark K-1’s Continued Expansion into South America

Tokyo, Japan / São Paulo, Brazil — June 9, 2025 — K-1, a leading kickboxing promotion based in Japan (owned by M-1 Sports Media KK), has announced two upcoming tournaments in collaboration with South America’s top combat sports organization, WGP Kickboxing. The events, scheduled for later this year, build on the momentum of a successful 2024 collaboration.

Two Events, Two Divisions
Curitiba will host the 8-man K-1 WORLD MAX 2025 –70 KG SOUTH AMERICAN ROUND, with the winner earning a spot in the K-1 WORLD MAX Final 16 in Japan later this year. This marks the first time the –70kg South American Round has been held as part of the World MAX series. Later in the year, K-1 and WGP will return to Brasília for a second tournament—this time as the official South American qualifying event for the K-1 World GP heavyweight division, in October.

K-1’s return to Brazil signals a renewed focus on the region.
The promotion re-entered the South American market in 2024 with an event in Brasília—its first in 18 years. Backed by local government support, the tournament was well received, and its winner, Ariel Machado, went on to capture the K-1 World GP title in Tokyo.

Both promotions expressed enthusiasm for the continued collaboration.
“It’s inspiring to see our partners at WGP reigniting the excitement that only kickboxing can deliver,” said Mitsuru Miyata, Executive Producer of K-1. “When it comes to clean, decisive knockouts, kickboxing is king—and we’re proud to once again team up with WGP, who bring top-level talent from the region into the global spotlight.”

“There’s nothing like the energy of a fight in Brazil,” said Paulo Zorello, President of WGP Kickboxing. “Brazil and South America have incredible talent, and we’re proud to showcase it on the world stage. Partnering with K-1, one of the most respected names in combat sports, creates real opportunities and raises the bar for our region.”

Confirmed Fighters for the 70kg Grand Prix:
Four Brazilian standouts from WGP Kickboxing have been confirmed for the 8-man Grand Prix in São José dos Pinhais:

• Petros “Cabelinho” (Curitiba): Current WGP Welterweight Champion. A K-1 veteran with over 30 fights and three successful title defenses. Fought in Tokyo and delivered a KO win in Brasília.
• Jones Coliseu (São Paulo): Physically powerful and technically versatile, Coliseu holds 30+ fights and a strong record. He pushed Cabelinho in a razor-close match at WGP 70.
• Marcio de Jesus (São Paulo): Known for his heavy hands and aggressive boxing, Marcio won a narrow split decision over André Martins at WGP 79.
• André Martins (Brasília): Known for his intelligence and aggression, Martins holds a 13-3 record and challenged Cabelinho for the WGP title in Brasília. He is recognized for his calculated pressure and grit.

K-1 World Max South-American Round


• Date: 06/28/2025
Venue: Centro de Esporte e Lazer Max Rosenmann – São José dos Pinhais, Curitiba,
• Brazil
Time: 6:20 pm (BRT / GMT-3) 
Broadcast:
• Preliminary Fights: www.youtube.com/wgpkickboxing at 6:20 pm (BRT/GMT -3)
• Main card: Canal Combate at 9pm (BRT/GMT -3)
• Tickets: https://bit.ly/K1WorldMaxSA

For more information:

www.k-1.co.jp / https://wgpkickboxing.com.br/


Media Contacts:
Jonathan Sherr

K-1 Overseas Operation Division

jonathan@k-1.world

João Sanches
WGP Kickboxing Communications Director
joao.sanches@wgpkickboxing.com.br


About K-1
Founded in 1993, K-1 is a globally recognized kickboxing organization based in Japan. Known for its tournament format and iconic matchups, K-1 has set the standard for striking and produced many of the sport’s most legendary champions.


About M-1 Sports Media KK
M-1 Sports Media KK is a Tokyo-based company and exclusive owner of the K-1 brand. Focused on global growth and athlete promotion, M-1 is revitalizing kickboxing for a new generation.


About WGP Kickboxing
WGP Kickboxing is Latin America’s leading professional kickboxing league. Since 2011, it has launched elite South American fighters, produced dynamic events, and built a passionate fanbase.