2024.09.25

On Sunday, September 29th, Argentina’s Tomas Aguirre (Dojo Serpiente) will step into the ring to face off against China’s Meng Gaofeng (Tianjin AFU Fight Club/CFP) in the first round of the 8-man, one-day tournament at the K-1 WORLD MAX 2024, held at the Yoyogi National Stadium 2nd Gymnasium in Tokyo. Aguirre, who is eyeing the K-1 Super Lightweight Championship, shared his ambitions and determination ahead of his K-1 debut.

Aguirre currently holds the WGP Kickboxing Super Lightweight (-64.5kg) title and made headlines in January 2023 with a thrilling showdown against Mexico’s Abraham Vidales at GLORY RIVALS 5. Known for his devastating hooks and low kicks, Aguirre’s strength lies in his ability to brawl, which makes him a formidable contender in this tournament.

Meng Gaofeng, on the other hand, is the reigning -65kg Wu Lin Feng World Champion and a teammate of Ouyang Feng. Gaofeng claimed the title after defeating Serhii Adamchuk in November 2023. In December 2019, he secured a victory over Japan’s Masaya Kubo in the GLORY ring, and in March 2024, he won a decision against Alikhan Ozdoev. Representing China, Meng is ready to make his mark in K-1.

—How did you get started in martial arts?

”My parents are both karate black belts. Growing up, my toys were basically sparring gloves. So, martial arts naturally became a part of my life. I first put on gloves when I was around 7 or 8, and by 9, I was already fighting.”

—Did you have any favorite K-1 fighters when you were a kid?

”I looked up to Andy Souwer and Buakaw. I followed Souwer especially during the 2003-2004 K-1 era. Masato was also one of my favorites. My fighting style is actually influenced by theirs—combinations, powerful strikes, and kicks. I’ve incorporated their styles into my own.”

—Do you have a nickname in the ring?

“My dad, who’s also my coach, started calling me ‘The Jackal’ when I was around 10. I guess it’s because I’m patient, lure my opponents into making mistakes, and then finish them off. It stuck, and now everyone calls me that.”

—What is kickboxing like in Argentina?

“Kickboxing is actually quite popular. We have tournaments almost every week, and there’s a lot of talent. But we don’t have international tournaments like K-1 or GLORY. I haven’t fought an Argentine fighter in a while, because it’s hard to prove your skill without competing on the world stage.”

—In this tournament, you’re representing South America.

”Ultimately, I want to showcase how strong kickboxers are from Argentina, but that’s not my sole focus. I mainly aim to prove that I’m worthy of this opportunity. I love Argentina, and being on the K-1 stage means I’ve established myself as one of the top fighters. I want to prove that I belong in K-1!”

—How would you rate the WGP organization?

”It’s the most important organization in South America. It’s a gateway for kickboxers aiming to fight in K-1. It’s a platform where the best fighters from South America come together.”

—You’ve also fought in GLORY. What did you learn from that experience?

“Those fights were the toughest of my career. I learned a lot about showing respect to your opponent in the ring. I also learned not to be intimidated by rankings. Just because someone is ranked higher doesn’t mean you should back down. I’ll be bringing those lessons with me to the K-1 ring.”

—How would you describe your fighting style?

”I have a more traditional kickboxing style, relying on punches, throwing powerful combinations and finishing with kicks.”

—What’s your signature move?

“My main strength is my boxing, especially body punches.”

—What’s your impression of your opponent, Meng Gaofeng?

“He’s tall, definitely one of the taller fighters in this division. He’s good, but I haven’t noticed anything special.”

—Any other fighters in the tournament that have caught your attention?

“I’ve watched footage of the other fighters, but none have really stood out to me. Of course, I’ve reviewed them all in preparation for the tournament, but I’m focused on Meng Gaofeng for now.”

—Any concerns about competing in a one-day tournament?

”No. I’ll win the first round quickly and then focus on the next fight. You’ve got to avoid injuries and conserve energy when fighting three times in one day. I’ve got a strategy, so I’m not too worried.”

—What are your goals after this tournament?

”I want to become a star in Japan, like Masato and Buakaw. I plan on becoming a household name.”

—What should fans watch for in your fights?

“Being able to fight on the K-1 stage is a childhood dream come true. Right now, I’m not interested in fighting for any other organization. I want people to see my technical kickboxing, my aggressive style, and my passion for K-1.”

—You have a high KO rate. Do you go into fights aiming for a knockout?

”My KO rate is high because I’ve honed my strategy for each fight. I always have a process in mind for achieving a knockout. My team analyzes my opponents, and we train accordingly. It’s not just luck.”

—What does fighting in K-1 mean to you?

”All the hard work and my entire career have led to this moment—to fight in the K-1 ring. I’m going to win this tournament, no matter what!”

—Lastly, any message for the fans before the tournament?

”I’m not coming to Japan as a tourist. I’m here to become the champion. I want the Japanese fans to witness my passion and dedication to K-1. It’s an honor to be part of this, but I’m not here to take pictures—I’m here to win!”