In the high-octane world of professional kickboxing, where explosive power often overshadows strategic depth, stands Sergej Braun. A GLORY Middleweight contender whose journey is as compelling as his “Braun Buster” spinning back kick. As he gears up for his clash with Iliass Hammouche at GLORY 104 in Rotterdam, Braun embodies a unique blend of traditional martial arts discipline and modern kickboxing ferocity, all while navigating the sport`s evolving landscape.
From Dojo Floors to the GLORY Ring: A Kyokushin Legacy
Unlike many contemporary fighters who cut their teeth exclusively in kickboxing gyms, Sergej Braun`s foundation was forged in the rigorous art of Kyokushin Karate. This is not merely a footnote in his biography; it is the very bedrock of his fighting philosophy and distinctive style. “When I was a 13-year-old boy, I sat in front of the TV every Monday because that’s when the K-1 Grand Prix fights were shown in our country,” Braun recounts, recalling the profound impact of legends like Andy Hug and Semmy Schilt – fellow Kyokushin practitioners who successfully transitioned to kickboxing and dominated the sport. “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.”
This early inspiration explains much of Braun`s approach: a relentless spirit, unorthodox techniques, and a profound respect for the martial way. While many might view karate as an antiquated discipline in the context of modern combat sports, Braun demonstrates its enduring relevance, proving that the roots of a fighter can often dictate their most spectacular growth.
The Road to Rotterdam: Redemption and Resilience
Braun’s last outing in GLORY saw him challenge Donovan Wisse for the Middleweight title, a fight he ultimately lost. But for a martial artist of Braun`s caliber, defeat is not an end but a crucible. “The fight against Donovan Wisse only made me stronger,” he states plainly. “I could see that I still need to change a few things in order to come back even stronger.” Since then, he`s defended his WAKO World Championship title for the fourth time, a testament to his continued activity and dedication to improvement.
Now, at GLORY 104, Braun faces Iliass Hammouche, a Dutch-Moroccan kickboxer known for his high-paced, aggressive style. It`s a classic clash of different schools, a strategic puzzle Braun approaches with characteristic calm. “He is a good fighter, and at GLORY 104 two different styles will clash. I’m really looking forward to the fight,” he remarks. Having watched Hammouche`s “crazy” fight against his friend Mesud Selimovic, Braun has diligently studied his opponent`s strengths, ensuring he arrives “well-prepared.”
Fighting in the Netherlands, Hammouche’s home turf, is another layer to the challenge, but one Braun has grown accustomed to. “By now I’m used to fighting in The Netherlands and having the whole crowd against me. So far, we’ve always managed to win the audience over to our side after the fight,” he notes, a subtle hint of confidence in his ability to not just win, but captivate. It’s a pragmatic view: “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.”
The Middleweight Conundrum: A Plea for Balance
Despite being ranked number 3 in the GLORY Middleweight division, Braun found himself somewhat surprised by the matchup against an unranked Hammouche. He openly admits he expected a higher-ranked opponent, perhaps a rematch with Serkan Ozcaglayan or a trilogy fight with Michael Boapeah, or even a return bout with Mohamed Touchassie, whose jaw he famously broke with his “Braun Buster.” This highlights a larger frustration simmering within GLORY’s lighter divisions.
Braun articulates the growing concern among fighters: GLORY`s recent heavy focus on the heavyweight division has left other weight classes with fewer opportunities. “It is important that fighters compete regularly in order to show a good level of fights. You need at least four fights a year to stay active as a fighter. Less than that, unfortunately, doesn’t make sense,” he explains. He hasn`t fought in GLORY for a year, a significant layoff for a professional athlete at the peak of his career. “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 fuels his fervent desire for an 8-man Middleweight tournament, a format last seen in GLORY nearly a decade ago. “I would really love to have an 8-man tournament in our weight division,” Braun emphasizes. “A tournament is very exciting not only for the fans but also for the fighters, because you really need a lot of luck to get through the rounds without injuries.” Such an event, featuring top contenders like Donovan Wisse, Michael Boapeah, Ulric Bokeme, and Serkan Ozcaglayan, would undoubtedly reinvigorate the division and provide the consistent competitive platform Braun and his peers crave.
The “Braun Buster” and the Spirit of Innovation
Braun himself is a purveyor of spectacular techniques. His “Braun Buster,” a spinning back kick that famously fractured Mohamed Touchassie`s jaw, is a highlight reel staple. He appreciates similar innovation, praising Levi Rigters` recent spinning back kick knockout over Jamal Ben Saddik. “I saw the fight and I think it’s great that the guys are trying out new techniques, because that makes our sport much more spectacular,” Braun says. This is not just about flash; it’s about pushing the boundaries of the sport and captivating audiences with the unexpected.
Veteran Wisdom, Unyielding Ambition
At 36, Sergej Braun is a seasoned veteran in a sport often dominated by younger competitors. Yet, his ambition remains undimmed, and his perspective extends beyond mere accolades. “My goal is 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,” he shares, embodying the wisdom accumulated over years of dedication and sacrifice. This profound ethos underpins his ultimate competitive goal: “My goal is the GLORY title at 85 kg!”
As Sergej Braun steps into the GLORY 104 ring, he carries the weight of a distinguished past, the intensity of a challenging present, and the bright beacon of future aspirations. His journey is a powerful reminder that in martial arts, true victory lies not just in winning fights, but in the unwavering pursuit of excellence and the inspiring example set along the way. Kickboxing fans in Rotterdam and around the world will be watching closely as this karateka continues his quest for GLORY gold.
Murray Blackwood