In the unforgiving world of professional kickboxing, few stories resonate with as much grit and seasoned determination as that of Sergej Braun. Hailing from Germany, this GLORY Middleweight contender is not just fighting opponents; he`s battling perceptions, challenging the sport`s landscape, and carrying the torch of martial arts legends. As he prepares to step back into the GLORY ring, his journey is a testament to unwavering dedication and a clear vision for the future.
From Kyokushin Dojo to Kickboxing Canvas: A Legacy Forged in Fire
Braun`s foundation wasn`t laid in the conventional kickboxing gym but in the rigorous discipline of Kyokushin Karate. This full-contact style, known for its emphasis on spirit and toughness, provided a unique blueprint for his transition into the professional kickboxing arena. The names that echo through his formative years are those of titans: Andy Hug, Semmy Schilt, Glaube Feitosa, Nicolas Pettas, and Francisco Filho—all Kyokushin practitioners who transcended their roots to conquer the K-1 Grand Prix. For a 13-year-old Braun, watching these warriors on television wasn`t just entertainment; it was a prophecy.
“When all those men from Kyokushin Karate fought, it always touched me emotionally. I always thought to myself, I will be just like those guys. These men inspired me a lot. They are still huge role models for me.”
This lineage of inspiration is visibly woven into Braun`s fighting style, marked by a potent combination of traditional power and modern striking finesse, which has earned him the moniker of a `spectacular technician.` His infamous `Braun Buster` – a spinning back kick that once left Mohamed Touchassie with a broken jaw – is a vivid reminder of the dangerous artistry he brings to the ring, a spectacle he believes is vital for the sport`s excitement.
The Crucible of Defeat: A Catalyst for Return
It`s been a year since Sergej Braun last graced the GLORY ring, a significant hiatus for any active fighter. His last GLORY outing was a high-stakes title bout against reigning Middleweight champion Donovan Wisse, a fight he ultimately lost. For many, such a defeat could be demoralizing, but for Braun, it was a pivotal learning experience. Rather than retreating, he channeled that energy, emerging stronger and more resolved, as evidenced by his successful fourth defense of his WAKO World Championship title earlier this year.
“The fight against Donovan Wisse only made me stronger. I could see that I still need to change a few things in order to come back even stronger.”
This return to GLORY at GLORY 104 isn`t just another fight; it`s a statement. Currently ranked No. 3 on GLORY`s official roster (and No. 5 by Beyond Kickboxing), Braun is a seasoned veteran, yet his hunger for the gold remains as fierce as ever.
The Rotterdam Challenge: Facing Iliass Hammouche on Home Turf
His opponent at GLORY 104, Iliass Hammouche, presents a formidable challenge. The Dutch-Moroccan kickboxer is known for his high-paced, aggressive style – a stark contrast to Braun`s more measured, power-focused approach. This stylistic clash promises fireworks, and Braun, ever the meticulous fighter, has been studying Hammouche`s recent performances, particularly his wild bout against Mesud Selimovic.
Iliass Hammouche (left) delivers a powerful strike against Mesud Selimović. Photo: GLORY Kickboxing
Fighting Hammouche in his home country, the Netherlands, means Braun will likely face a partisan crowd. However, this is hardly new territory for the German veteran. With a touch of pragmatism and seasoned confidence, he observes:
“By now I’m used to fighting in The Netherlands and having the whole crowd against me. So far, we’ve always managed to win the audience over to our side after the fight. I’m a guest there, and of course it’s clear that I have to do much more to earn a victory than my opponent who fights in front of his home crowd.”
This self-aware perspective highlights not just his mental fortitude but also the inherent challenge and pressure on a visiting fighter. It`s a game he`s played before, and one he aims to win, not just in the ring but also in the hearts of the spectators.
The Middleweight Dilemma: A Plea for Opportunity
Beyond his individual ambition, Braun voices a sentiment shared by many in GLORY`s non-heavyweight divisions: a palpable frustration with the promotion`s apparent focus on the heavyweight class. The lack of consistent fights, with Braun himself experiencing a year-long absence from GLORY, directly impacts a fighter`s ability to stay active, develop, and earn a living.
“It is important that fighters compete regularly in order to show a good level of fights. You need at least four fights a year to stay active as a fighter. Less than that, unfortunately, doesn’t make sense.”
This disparity has led some fighters to explore opportunities elsewhere, and Braun`s desire for a Middleweight tournament — a format that hasn`t graced the division since 2014 — isn`t just a personal wish. It`s a call for renewed attention and a platform for the division`s top talent to truly shine. Imagining a bracket featuring powerhouses like Donovan Wisse, Michael Boapeah, Ulric Bokeme, and Serkan Ozcaglayan, Braun believes such a tournament would be a thrill for both fans and fighters, demanding both skill and a touch of luck to emerge victorious.
A Veteran`s Vision: Beyond the Belt
At 36, Sergej Braun is one of the more experienced fighters on the GLORY roster, a “veteran of the sport.” But age has brought not just experience but also a profound sense of purpose. While the GLORY Middleweight title remains his primary professional objective, his aspirations extend far beyond a championship belt.
“My goal is to be a great role model for my children and my students, and to show them that in life you must never give up as long as you are breathing.”
This philosophy encapsulates the essence of Sergej Braun: a fighter who embodies discipline, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the power of perseverance. As he heads into GLORY 104, he carries not just the weight of his own ambitions but also the hopes of a division eager for its moment in the spotlight. For fans, it promises to be more than just a fight; it`s a chapter in the compelling saga of a true martial artist.
Ellis Thorne 
Gareth Fenton