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World kickboxing legend and four-time K-1 World Champion Semmy Schilt has embraced a new mission – helping the next generation of fighters make a successful transition from traditional martial arts to the professional ring. As President of KWU SENSHI Europe, he is actively working to build a system that transforms talented karate practitioners into accomplished kickboxers through education, international competitions, and opportunities to learn from some of the biggest names in combat sports.

Ahead of SENSHI 32 Grand Prix, Schilt spoke in a special interview for NOVA TV about the philosophy behind this transformation, the challenges facing young athletes, and how the experience of great champions can lay the foundation for the next generation of stars in professional combat sports.

The international fight gala will take place on July 11, at the beach arena in the St. St. Constantine and Helena resort near Varna. Schilt also shared that he always enjoys returning to Varna, Bulgaria’s beautiful Black Sea city.

“I have the opportunity to pass on my knowledge to the younger generation of karate practitioners and kickboxers. That is why I am happy and excited to come back here. Last but not least, the city is very beautiful,” he said.

The KWU SENSHI Europe President also noted that participants from across Europe, as well as Brazil and Japan, attend the training camp in Varna.

“It truly is an international platform. Of course, the Bulgarian fighters have the advantage of competing on home ground, and that is a great opportunity for them,” Schilt said.

Speaking about SENSHI 32 Grand Prix, he emphasized that fans can once again expect an exciting night of world-class fights.

“The event will take place on the beach at St. St. Constantine and Helena Resort in Varna, and it will be a spectacular show, as always. When the fighters are selected at such a high level and are evenly matched, the result is always thrilling bouts,” he stated.

Schilt also explained that SENSHI provides karate practitioners and martial artists with the opportunity to perform on a major international stage.

“SENSHI gives karate practitioners the opportunity to transform into kickboxers. But the best way to understand what it feels like to climb the ladder of success is to try training martial arts yourself,” he said.

During the interview, Semmy Schilt also spoke about the key lessons young fighters learn at the training camp. Beyond movement techniques and sparring sessions, the program focuses on building mental resilience and teaching athletes how to overcome challenges.

“To live according to the SENSHI values: brave, honorable, and resilient. That is the most important lesson we teach young people when they come here to train. We teach them how to deal with defeat, difficulties, and victories alike. Because when you win, you cannot become a bully. When you win, you must do so with respect for your opponent,” Schilt emphasized.

During the interview, he also recalled his appearance in The Transporter alongside Jason Statham, describing it as an unforgettable experience.

SENSHI 32 Grand Prix will take place on July 11 on the beach arena at St. St. Constantine and Helena Resort near Varna, Bulgaria. The international fight gala will be broadcast live on SENSHI’s YouTube Channel starting at 7:30 PM ЕЕТ /12:30 PM EST/.