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On September 16, 2023, the martial arts world witnessed a historic spectacle as Karate Combat, the premier full-contact karate league, appeared in the Altos de Chavón Amphitheater hosting Karate Combat 41 (KC 41). This event offered an electrifying night of high-impact action that showcased a stellar lineup of fighters from around the globe.
The Marquee Showdown
The main event of KC 41 featured a clash of titans as Russian contender Myzra-Bek Tebuev faced off against the undefeated Irish champion Eoghan Chelmiah for the Karate Combat World Bantamweight Championship. With a kick to the liver, Tebuev’s victory saw him crowned as the new champion, ending Chelmiah’s reign that began on October 25, 2020.
Dominican Talent Takes Center Stage
Five local fighters had the unique opportunity to showcase their skills on their home turf in a significant highlight for the Dominican Republic. Jorge Pérez, aptly nicknamed the “David of Karate Combat” for his remarkable victories against towering opponents, including former UFC top-ten-ranked fighter James Vick, stepped into the ring against Italy’s Gabriele Cera. Pérez secured a swift victory with a knockout five seconds into the first round.
Deivis Ferreras, known for his playful and humorous style in the pit, debuted in front of a Dominican audience, squaring off against Czech fighter Tim Ha. The match ended in the first round, with Ha beating Ferreras by Knock Out.
Ana Villanueva, representing the Dominican Republic, faced off against Brazilian fighter Rafaela Bernardo, with both fighters putting on impressive skill and determination. After fighting all three rounds, Villanueva won by unanimous decision.
In the heavyweight fight, Brazilian Antonio Arroyo defeated Dominican Reynaldo Acevedo “Tikki” via knockout. Acevedo, who has been highly prominent in MMA, was making his first appearance in Karate Combat.
Dominican Máximo Nuñez, from La Romana, defeated Frenchman Moulay Oudoud by unanimous decision in the first fight of the Bantamweight category.
See all the Fight Results here!
Guests of Honor
Karate Combat 41 welcomed legendary guests, including superstar Georges St-Pierre, who served as a commentator for the event. St-Pierre, widely regarded as one of the world’s top martial artists and a former UFC champion in the welterweight and middleweight divisions, added his expertise and experience to the commentary team. Additionally, former UFC heavyweight champion Bas Rutten and other martial arts superstars graced this historic event with their presence.
Karate Combat’s debut in the Dominican Republic marked a significant moment in the league’s history, offering a dazzling showcase of elite karate talent on a global stage. KC 41 left a lasting impression on martial arts enthusiasts worldwide with electrifying bouts and legendary guests.
Photos by Mairobi Herrera
