KOS by Alain Coppey 🇨🇭
Bringing National Championships Back to the Forefront: The Example of Switzerland !
Switzerland has long been a powerhouse in the world of kickboxing, producing some of the greatest fighters in history and maintaining a strong tradition in organizing high-level events. For decades, Swiss fighters have competed at the highest level, earning international recognition and leaving a lasting impact on the sport.
✅Switzerland’s Legendary Kickboxers
Some of the most notable Swiss kickboxers include:
• Andy Hug – A true icon of the sport, known for his spectacular performances in K-1 and his devastating axe kicks. Hug remains one of the most respected and beloved fighters in kickboxing history.
• Xhavit Bajrami – A dominant heavyweight fighter who competed in K-1 and won multiple international titles.
• Jean-Marc Tonus – One of the pioneers of Swiss kickboxing, known for his technical skills and contributions to the sport.
• Carl Emery – A respected fighter and promoter who has played a key role in the development of kickboxing in Switzerland.
• Johnny & Jerome Canabate – well-known name in the Swiss kickboxing scene, recognized for their powerful fighting style.
• Charles Aubry – Another accomplished Swiss fighter who made his mark in international competition.
• Mauro Martelli – A true Swiss combat sports legend, with seven European boxing titles, three European kickboxing titles, and two world championships against renowned opponents Iron Barkley and Mark Breland.
These fighters have helped put Switzerland on the map as a kickboxing nation, proving that the country can produce world-class talent capable of competing against the best in the world.
✅The Role of Visionary Promoters
Beyond its fighters, Switzerland has been home to visionary promoters who have worked tirelessly to elevate the sport. Figures such as Olivier Muller, Carl Emery, Jean-Daniel Pfund, Daniel Perroud, Tony Fiore, and others have played a crucial role in organizing top-tier events and giving Swiss fighters the platform they deserve.
One of the best examples of this effort is the KOS event, which brings national championships back to the forefront. This event showcases elite-level Swiss fighters, ensuring that local talent receives the recognition it deserves instead of being overshadowed by international competitions that sometimes lack real sporting merit.
✅Why National Championships Matter
In recent years, the growing focus on international and world championships has sometimes led to the neglect of national competitions. Many federations prioritize the quantity of events over the quality and history of the fighters they promote. As a result, deserving national-level athletes often get overlooked.
By reinvesting in high-level national championships, Switzerland is setting an example for other countries. Events like K-OS demonstrate that strong national circuits are essential for the growth of the sport, ensuring that the best fighters receive proper exposure, experience, and opportunities to progress to the highest levels.
Switzerland’s commitment to honoring its kickboxing heritage and maintaining high standards in fighter development serves as a blueprint for how combat sports should be structured. By focusing on quality over quantity, the country continues to solidify its position as a true powerhouse in kickboxing.