German K-1 legend Stefan “Blitz” Leko makes his ring return this Saturday at the KOK World Series event at the Yayla Arena in Krefeld, Germany.
Once again, Leko will be battling for championship gold, as Leko faces fellow German Niko “Karl Stahl” Lohmann for the IKBO K-1 Rules Heavyweight World Title.
In a ring career spanning over 20 years, Leko has faced some of the sport’s greatest fighters, including Peter Aerts, Remy Bonjasky, Ernesto Hoost, and the late Andy Hug in the golden era of the K-1 organization. He’s a three-time tournament winner (One K-1 Dream and two K-1 Las Vegas GP titles) and also held world titles.
German promoter and manager Frank Mach spoke to the legend to ask about Leko’s preparation for his KOK debut, and his thoughts on facing Lohmann for the title.
Q: Thank you for taking the time to talk to us. It’s an honor. How was training camp for the upcoming fight on 30 November?
Stefan Leko: The preparation went very well. I had enough time, no injuries and I will be in good shape on the 30.11.2019 in Krefeld.
Q: If I recall, you were injured last June. Did you make any changes to your training for this match because of the injury?
Stefan Leko: The training routine is always the same. An injury can happen at any time, this time the recovery period was a little longer.
Q: You’ll be facing Niko “Karl Stahl” Lohmann. He’s an experienced guy in combat sports with MMA and kickboxing experience. Do you have any thoughts on your opponent?
Stefan Leko: Every opponent hits back, I never underestimate any opponent. I will be in best shape and don’t worry about Niko Lohmann. He is a tough guy but hey I am also strong. So I am looking forward to this fight.
Q: You’ve fought for some top kickboxing organizations over the years, including K-1 and It’s Showtime. KOK has become one of Europe’s biggest. Are you excited about fighting for KOK?
Stefan Leko: KOK is a growing organization and I am happy to be part of it: I really enjoy to fight for KOK, especially in front of my home fans.
Q: You’re a legend of German kickboxing. You were fighting many top names from Holland and Japan and Europe in the K-1 organization years ago. Is there a best memory you have from your time in the sport?
Stefan Leko: I met so many great people in this sport especially all the big names of K-1, I have been in so many countries. These are my memories from this great time.
Q: That’s all the questions I have. Thank you for your time. Is there anything else you’d like to say or anyone you’d like to thank?
Stefan Leko: I just want to thank you for this interview, it was my pleasure. I also greet my fans all over the world because they never forget me and the other legends of the golden days.
