“The Champion Has Arrived” – Koprivlenski Ready to Settle the Score with the ‘Hamburger King’: “I’ll Let My Performance in the Ring Do the Talking” | Sep 7, K-1 WORLD MAX Opening Round
August 31, 2025
The K-1 WORLD MAX 2025 -70kg World’s Strongest Tournament returns this year, kicking off with an opening round featuring 16 fighters. We interviewed Stoyan Koprivlenski, last year’s tournament winner, ahead of his bout at the September 7 event.
—The opening round of the tournament is set to begin. How are you feeling about being part of it?
“I’m honored to be part of the opening round. I’m excited to test myself at the biggest stage.”
—Last year, you lost in the opening round but returned to the tournament due to Ouyang Feng’s withdrawal and ended up winning the whole thing. It was quite the dramatic turn of events.
“Last year, I didn’t get the result I wanted at first, but that experience helped me grow. Every fight gave me lessons.”
—This year’s bracket includes returning contenders like yourself, as well as new faces from around the world. What’s your take on the tournament lineup?
“The addition of new, strong fighters makes the tournament even more exciting. Every opponent is dangerous, but I’m focused on my own fight first.”
—Your opening round opponent is Denis Tapu. What’s your impression of him?
“He’s tough and physically strong. Definitely not someone to take lightly.”
—Tapu is known for eating hamburgers at weigh-ins to taunt his opponents, earning him the nickname “Hamburger King.” He also holds a decision win over your younger brother Martin from three and a half years ago. Do you have any message for him, perhaps looking for revenge?
“I’m not the type to talk about payback—I’ll let my performance in the ring do the talking.”
—So you suppress your emotions and focus on executing your job calmly.
“Exactly. Speaking through performance in the ring is what being a fighter is all about.”
—In your most recent fight last December, you were knocked down and lost by decision to Hiromi Wajima. What do you think led to that loss?
“After the knockdown, I got flustered and couldn’t stick to my strategy. I’ve made a lot of adjustments since then, and I’m confident you’ll see a different version of me this time.”
—You moved from Bulgaria to the Netherlands to train at the renowned Mike’s Gym, known for its grueling regimen. How do you stay motivated in such an intense environment?
“It takes strong will and commitment. The training is hard, yes, but overcoming that gives me confidence.”
—Without giving too much away, can you tell us what you’ve been focusing on for your upcoming fight?
“I’ve been working on both my physical and mental conditioning. I’m aiming for a balanced mix of speed, stamina, and power.”
—This is unrelated to your match, but in the opening round, Ouyang Feng will face Kacper Muszynski right away. Who do you think will win?
“They’re both high-level fighters, so it’s hard to say. But I think it’ll be a great fight. I’m looking forward to facing whoever advances.”
—Lastly, a message for your Japanese fans?
“To all the fans in Japan, thank you for your passionate support. I’ll give everything I’ve got and deliver an exciting fight. I hope to see you at the venue!”