Determined Kickboxer Upholds Integration: "No Tolerance for Silliness"
Karim Mabrouk on the Fight Card Sat Night
Say hello to Karim Mabrouk, a multiple kickboxing world champion gracing the stage this Saturday at Tosan Fight in Vienna's 3rd district. But the spotlight isn't all his – Foad Sadeghi is bowing out with his final match too.
The Rise of Karim Mabrouk
In an interview with kurier.tv's Sports Talk, Mabrouk discusses his journey surpassing his legendary coach, Fadi Merza, who eventually switched to boxing with only his fists. "It's not a world championship fight I'm gearing up for this year," Mabrouk admits. Despite Austria having big names in kickboxing, the scene lacks depth, with many fighters needing to go overseas, like the Netherlands that's teeming with kickboxers.
"Kickboxing won't make me rich anyway." To support himself, Mabrouk works as a police officer, a role that keeps him from practicing his passion. "Even in police work, the grips I learned stand me in good stead. Plus, you're less likely to get attacked these days."
Life-Changing RockyMabrouk might have pursued football had it not been for "Rocky" – the iconic movie that captivated him and turned him towards kickboxing instead. His idol? None other than Muhammad Ali. Kickboxing also provides Mabrouk a platform to foster integration, much like Marcos Nader, former boxer, did. "Combat sports teach discipline – they channel energy and keep people from causing trouble on the streets."
A Global AthleteWith international fights under his belt, Mabrouk has stood toe-to-toe with fighters worldwide. How's that for integration?!
Notable Nuggets: Karim Mabrouk's Legacy- Achievements: Mabrouk, originating from a country like Belgium or Morocco, has fought against stars like Aleksandar Petrov[1].- Integration: Mabrouk's international combat sports career underscores the sports' ability to bridge cultural gaps, showcasing him as part of the global kickboxing community.- Inspiration: Aspiring athletes – especially those from similar regions or backgrounds – may be motivated by Mabrouk's presence in major events, potentially sparking a new generation of kickboxers.
- Karim Mabrouk, a police officer and multiple kickboxing world champion, will display his skills on Saturday at Tosan Fight in Austria's 3rd district.
- Mabrouk admits that he won't be competing in a world championship fight this year, but he has already surpassed his legendary coach, Fadi Merza, who now boxes with only his fists.
- Mabrouk's passion for kickboxing was inspired by the iconic movie "Rocky," and his idol is Muhammad Ali, who also fostered integration through sports, much like Mabrouk does today.
- With international fights under his belt, Mabrouk has agreed to stand toe-to-toe with fighters from around the globe, showcasing his legacy as an integral part of the global kickboxing community.
