News

The legendary Shihan Francisco “Chiquinho” Alves Filho (7th Dan in Kyokushin Karate, World Champion in Japan, and K-1 Champion) was officially received by the Mayor of Cluj-Napoca, Romania, during the 2025 International BGN Kumite Weekend, held from October 24 to 26 at the Grand Hotel Italia.

The meeting with the mayor marked an important moment of institutional recognition of the event’s international impact. The city leader highlighted the value of hosting activities that promote discipline, respect, perseverance, and fair play, stating:

“The presence of world champions in Cluj confirms the international recognition our city has earned through its approach to sports. We will continue to support sporting activities of all kinds — it’s the smartest investment we can make in our health.”

The 2025 International BGN Kumite Weekend brought together more than 80 athletes from Romania, Switzerland, Brazil, Hungary, and Mexico, solidifying Cluj as a key hub for Kyokushin Karate in Europe.

The event was organized by Sensei Viorel Tatar, President of CS Budo Gym Napoca, whose dedication and leadership were fundamental to its success. The presence of Shihan Francisco Filho and Shihan Eduard Gabathuler (8th Dan and Special Forces coach) further elevated the significance of the occasion.

Also present at the event were prominent figures from the Kyokushin community, including Viorica Szocs, Sensei Ionel Petean, Codrin Lenghel, Corina Gabathuler, and Eveline Bayer Deczuta, contributing to the sense of unity and shared purpose that defined the weekend.

The event symbolized not only the connection between countries and practitioners but also the public and institutional recognition of martial arts as a powerful force for building stronger and healthier communities.