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Get ready for an exciting development in the world of combat sports! Starting in 2024, the K-1 WORLD GRAND PRIX series returns, reigniting K-1 fervor around the world. But wait, there’s more! Carlos Kikuta, the dynamic producer at K-1, has just revealed details about an exciting initiative: the re-launch of the “K-1 FIGHTING NETWORK.” This isn’t just any event; it’s a golden opportunity for budding fighters worldwide, hosted under the prestigious banner of K-1 by global promoters. Let’s dive into what this means for the future of K-1.

-You’ve talked about bringing back the ‘K-1 FIGHTING NETWORK.’ Can you tell us more?

“Absolutely. The ‘K-1 FIGHTING NETWORK’ is a system we introduced back in 2005, during the peak of K-1. It’s specifically designed to help us scout new fighting talent. Promoters from regions around the globe will be granted licenses from the K-1 headquarters, which in turn will help to foster the growth of our global K-1 brand.”

-Issuing licenses and hosting tournaments worldwide sounds like a massive undertaking. How is this different from the ‘K-1 WORLD GRAND PRIX’ and ‘K-1 WORLD MAX’ series?

“The ‘K-1 WORLD GRAND PRIX’ and ‘K-1 WORLD MAX’ series could be compared to the ‘capstone’ of our competition pyramid. Below this, regional qualifying tournaments will be held worldwide–you could think of the ‘K-1 FIGHTING NETWORK’ as the base of the pyramid, providing the main volume for the structure.”

-So, this platform is mainly for up-and-coming fighters?

“Basically, yes. But here’s the twist – ‘K-1 FIGHTING NETWORK’ is the backbone for rebuilding the K-1 brand into something bigger and bolder.”

-That sounds important. How do you plan to implement it?

“Back in the day, K-1 was all about the thrill of global qualifiers and the final tournament where only the best could compete. Remember Mark Hunt, Badr Hari, Hongman Choi, and Alexey Ignashov? They were all dark horses who rose from these qualifiers. Take Ignashov, for instance. He was discovered through the ‘K-1 FIGHTING NETWORK’, and he battled his way from regional competitions to the grand finals. By broadening our base of fighters using the ‘K-1 FIGHTING NETWORK’, we’re creating a means for discovering hidden talent.”

-What’s the theme of “K-1 FIGHTING NETWORK” events?

“Our aim is to keep things flexible. The size and scale of events are up to the promoters, but the essence is pure K-1 rules. Depending on local preferences, promoters might mix in some MMA to spice things up. Our goal is to set the stage for these warriors to eventually shine in the ‘K-1 WORLD GRAND PRIX’ and ‘K-1 WORLD MAX’ tournaments. Nothing is more exciting than seeing previously unknown fighters rise to stardom to clash with the biggest names in combat sports. That’s the K-1 magic we’re bringing back.”

-Any concrete plans as of now (April 12)?

“Mark your calendars! The first ‘K-1 FIGHTING NETWORK’ event kicks off June 7th in Romania.”

-The event in Romania has been generating a big buzz online. People are wondering if this is an extension of the ‘K-1 WORLD GRAND PRIX’ series?

“Actually, all the ‘K-1 WORLD GRAND PRIX’ qualifiers are already set for the USA, Bosnia, Italy, and Brazil. The Romania event will be a ‘K-1 FIGHTING NETWORK’ event, adding a fresh chapter to the K-1 saga.”

-So, how should fans distinguish between the two?

“Simple – look for ‘K-1 FIGHTING NETWORK’ in the event name. Romania’s just the beginning! We’re in talks with promoters from over 20 countries right now, all who have come to us, eager to join the fray. We’re shaping the future of K-1 as we speak.”

-Can these events be viewed in Japan?

“Absolutely. The headquarters in Japan is figuring out the best way for fans worldwide to catch all the action, expanding K-1’s global reach.”

-What’s on the horizon after the June 7th event in Romania?

“Romania’s just the beginning. We’re in discussions with promoters about hosting yearly events, with negotiations under way
 in the USA and South Korea. Big announcements are on the horizon.”

(K-1 Producer Carlos Kikuta)

-So, you’re offering both single-event and annual licenses?

“That’s right. Many promoters want to focus on long-term commitment, to help cultivate the K-1 fanbase. We’ve got ideas for reality shows and tryouts, laying the foundation for the ‘K-1 FIGHTING NETWORK’ to really thrive.”

-Fans must want to see what kind of fighters are out there.

“While bringing in big names is fairly straightforward, our main goal is to discover and nurture untapped talent. We’re planning to hold weekly K-1 events worldwide, to find the next generation of fighters.”

-The widespread presence of “K-1 FIGHTING NETWORK” could really shake things up, huh?

“Exactly. More fights and competitors mean a higher chance of discovering exceptional talent. Remember the shock at K-1 WORLD MAX in Japan this March when all three Japanese fighters were knocked out of the tournament? It’s a wake-up call – the world is teeming with undiscovered ‘monsters’, and we’re on a mission to find them.”

-So, “K-1 FIGHTING NETWORK” holds the key to the future of K-1?

“That’s right. The history of dark horses who went on to become champions has always defined K-1’s legacy. ‘K-1 FIGHTING NETWORK’ is where the next generation of legends will emerge. There’s a lot to look forward to in the thrilling journey ahead!”

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