On February 9 (Sunday) at K-1 WORLD MAX 2025, Manolis Kallistis (Greece/NAS CAMP – SOR DECHAPANT) will challenge reigning K-1 WORLD GP Super Bantamweight Champion Akihiro Kaneko (Japan/K-1 Gym Jiyugaoka/FROG GYM) at Yoyogi National Gymnasium Second Stadium. Kallistis shared his thoughts in an interview ahead of the title fight.

The Man Behind “Rolling Thunder”
A specialist in the tornado kick, Manolis Kallistis first made waves in 2016 when he faced Tenshin Nasukawa in RISE. Despite suffering two knockdowns, he fought back hard, even drawing blood from Nasukawa’s nose. In 2023, he stepped into ONE Championship, and in his most recent fight, he delivered a highlight-reel KO via Rolling Thunder kick. That alone speaks volumes—he’s tough, unpredictable, and dangerous.

Kaneko’s Dominance at the Top
Kaneko captured the K-1 Super Bantamweight title in 2022, running through Yuto Kuroda, Riamu, and Masashi Kumura in a single tournament. After a razor-thin loss to Masahiko Suzuki in THE MATCH 2022, he bounced back, successfully defending his belt in a trilogy fight against Kumura.


Since then, he’s continued to be active: avenging his loss to Suzuki in RISE, winning the 2024 K-1 -55kg World Tournament, and knocking down Aslanbek Zikreev in December. He’s not just a champion—he’s a force to be reckoned with.

—February 9th at Yoyogi is your K-1 debut. What’s your strongest weapon?
I love using Rolling Thunder. Of course, I enjoy punching too, but if people know me for one thing, it’s knocking opponents out with that kick. The first time I fought in Thailand, I won by KO with a Rolling Thunder. That’s when I knew—it’s my move.


—How did you learn it?
I trained in Kyokushin Karate from ages 7 to around 15, and that’s where I picked it up. I even finished runner-up at the 2012 Kyokushin World Tournament. Since I turned 15, I’ve been fully focused on kickboxing.


—Why did you start Karate?
My dad brought me to a nearby dojo when I was seven. At first, I thought it would be useful for self-defense, but before I knew it, I was hooked.


—Did you have any role models in Kyokushin?
I was too young to really idolize anyone, but I always admired how brutal and demanding bare-knuckle Kyokushin was. It’s a real test of toughness.

—What does K-1 mean to you?
I’ve known about K-1 since I was a kid. My favorite fighter back then was Mike Zambidis, a fellow Greek. I think our styles are similar—aggressive, with powerful punches. I also admire legends like Andy Souwer, Giorgio Petrosyan, and Ernesto Hoost.


—Why did you take this fight?
K-1 has been a dream of mine since childhood. Just being here, following in Zambidis’ footsteps, is an incredible feeling. Every kickboxer dreams of fighting in K-1. Of course, it’s a challenge, but I’ve fought Tenshin Nasukawa and other top fighters before, so I don’t feel intimidated.

—What drives you to fight?
Personal growth. Martial arts push you to become stronger. Every fight, every training session—it all adds up. I love that feeling of progress.

—What’s your impression of Akihiro Kaneko?
He’s strong, durable, and technical. He’s a little taller than me, so I expect him to control the distance and fight smart. But I’m the type of fighter who capitalizes on mistakes. He’s tough, but I plan to pressure him up close and keep him uncomfortable.


—What kind of fight do you want to show?
A knockout. I’m only thinking about KO’ing Kaneko. This is for the K-1 championship. I don’t believe I can win on points—so, I’ll have to finish him.

I’m 200% certain I’ll win. I even have dreams about wearing the belt. That’s how confident I am.


—What do you have that Kaneko doesn’t?
I have a Greek Soul.

I don’t believe in quitting. To me, it’s simple: win or die. The Spartans had a saying, “Return home carrying your shield, or be carried on it lifeless.” That’s the Spartan way.


—For those unfamiliar, what’s the legend of the Spartans?
They were vastly outnumbered—300 warriors against a million enemies—and yet, they fought to the bitter end for their homeland, their families, and themselves. They never surrendered.

That’s what it means to have the Greek Soul.


—In Japan, there’s a similar idea—”Yamato-damashii” (Samurai Spirit)—a warrior’s unbreakable will.
Then this fight will be the Greek Soul vs. Yamato-damashii. It’s going to be an intense, almost spiritual battle.


—Lastly, do you have a message for Kaneko?

First off, thank you for this opportunity.
But I promise you—I’m not an easy opponent.
Brace Yourself, Kaneko, I’m coming to leave everything in the ring. I hope you’re ready.