> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# Ipswich kickboxer aims to reclaim world title
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/ipswich-kickboxer-aims-to-reclaim-world-title/
- Published: 2024-08-09T07:30:59.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T15:38:11.000Z
- Description: Martin Dimitrov, 19, will compete in the WKO Open World Championships in Barnsley next week, aiming to reclaim his 82kg world title.
- Author: Oliver Rouane-Williams
- Tags: News, #article, Suffolk New College, #Import 2026-03-16 14:46

**The big picture:** Dimitrov, who moved to Suffolk from Bulgaria five years ago, has faced personal and professional challenges since winning his amateur World Kickboxing Organisation title last year.

![Martin Dimitrov with his belt](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1723188089-martin-dimitrov-1.jpg)

Martin Dimitrov with his winning belt last year. He hopes to reclaim it next week at a tournament in Barnsley. Photo: Brett King

**Key details:**

- The championship takes place 16-18 August 2024 at the METRODOME in Barnsley
- Dimitrov will fight for England against competitors from 22 other countries
- He recently completed a business course at [Suffolk New College](https://www.ipswich.co.uk/tag/suffolk-new-college/) and plans to start a law degree at the University of Suffolk later this year

**What they're saying:** Dimitrov on his last, “During my last fight – I threw a punch and I think I broke my thumb. I lost the fight on a split decision. It was the toughest decision I’ve faced. But it was a good experience and I learnt a lot from it. I got knocked down. But I got back up and proved to myself that I’m not a quitter - and I almost knocked my opponent out."

Speaking candidly about coping with a first loss, he said, "I was really low after that fight. My dad told me I need to give it up. Then I went back to the gym a few days later and talked to my coach \[Gary Staff\] and I was devastated. People look at you differently when you lose - and it was a wake-up call. But my coaches said don’t worry about it and don’t take losing personally. So, I went back to training and now I can’t let it go and I’m ready to go in August.”

**Between the lines:** Dimitrov has overcome recent setbacks, including:

- A split decision loss in his last fight in Great Yarmouth, where he sustained a thumb injury
- Contemplating leaving the sport after the defeat
- Pressure from his father to give up kickboxing

Craig Shimmon, head of marketing at Suffolk New College, said: "Martin has been a committed student who has been successful both inside and outside of the classroom. We wish him all the best."

**The bottom line:** Despite challenges, Dimitrov remains committed to his sport, training six days a week while working in sales and business consultancy before he continues his studies. Good luck, Martin!

**Get involved:** If you're interested in sponsoring Martin, contact him directly at [martindimitrov2432@gmail.com](mailto:martindimitrov2432@gmail.com).

### Independent local journalism is expensive to produce

It's free for you to read thanks to the generous support of our partners.