Bulgarian kickboxer Dragomir Petrov is set to face a true Japanese challenge in one of the most anticipated bouts of SENSHI 31 Gladiators.
On May 30 at 7:30 PM EET /12:30 PM EST/, on the stage of the Ancient Theatre in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, he will measure his strength against the resilient Hirokatsu Miyagi – a fighter with a “samurai spirit” and an uncompromising style.
The clash is part of the spectacular Grand Prix tournament in the 70 kg category – a format that leaves no room for error. Eight fighters, three bouts in one night, and only one champion. It is a test of endurance, strategy, and character – a place where only the strongest survive.
For Petrov, this is more than just participation – it is a chance for a comeback. After a closely contested bout and a subsequent loss to Aissam Chadid in December 2025, caused by a single moment of inattention, the Bulgarian enters the tournament with a clear mission: redemption, victory, and proving himself at the highest level.
However, a serious challenge stands in his way. Hirokatsu Miyagi – winner of RISE 188 – already demonstrated his class to the Bulgarian audience during SENSHI 30. Aggressive, resilient, and fearless, the Japanese fighter made a strong statement. Dragomir Petrov, however, is far from an underdog. On the contrary – he is one of SENSHI’s standout fighters: a two-time European champion (2023, 2024), EMC Muay Thai champion, and four-time national champion. With 12 victories in the SENSHI ring, he has both the experience and the confidence to reach the top.
Outside the ring, Petrov has an even more demanding profession – he serves as a police officer in his hometown of Sliven. The discipline from his service carries over into his sporting career, and beyond that, he actively works with young people, encouraging them to develop through martial arts.
But his greatest motivation remains personal – his son.
On May 30 in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, it will become clear whether the Bulgarian school will prevail over Japanese resilience. One fighter will survive three battles. The question is – will it be Dragomir Petrov?
