German martial arts experts to lead international training and certification programmes; championship fights scheduled for January 23
BENGALURU, November 12, 2026: Bengaluru is set to host the prestigious IKBF International K-1 Kickboxing and Muay Thai Programme 2027 from January 21 to 23, bringing international martial arts experts, coaches, athletes and officials together for three days of specialised training, professional certification, grading and competitive events.
The details of the international programme were announced by Grand Master M. H. Abid, IKBF Representative for India and CEO of IKBF Asia, at a press meet held in Bengaluru on Thursday.
The programme will feature a distinguished international delegation from Germany, comprising Grand Master Detlef Tuernau, Founder and President of the International Kickboxing Federation (IKBF), and Mr. Jens Wilke, IKBF Federal Chief and IFMA International Technical Official.
The three-day initiative aims to strengthen India’s martial arts ecosystem by introducing international technical standards, upgrading coaching skills, developing qualified referees and judges, and creating greater opportunities for Indian fighters to compete in international championships.
The programme will include the IKBF K-1 Style International Certification Course, K-1 Belt Curriculum and Technical Training, higher-rank Black Belt grading, K-1 Kickboxing and Muay Thai technical training seminars, and international referee and judges certification courses.
A special focus will be placed on improving coaching methodologies, technical proficiency, scientific training practices and professional standards in martial arts. The programme is also expected to benefit young athletes through structured international syllabuses and recognised grading systems.
The three-day event will culminate in the IKBF K-1 Kickboxing and Muay Thai Big Challenge Fights Championship on January 23, 2027, providing fighters an opportunity to showcase their skills and competitive abilities.
Speaking at the press meet, Grand Master M. H. Abid said the initiative was aimed at bringing international expertise to India and creating a stronger foundation for the country’s martial arts community. He stressed the need for quality training, professional certification and international exposure to prepare Indian athletes for global competitions and world championships.
A pioneer of Muay Thai and Kickboxing in India, Grand Master Abid is also the founder of the iWarrior Group. He invited martial arts associations, club representatives, masters, coaches, instructors, athletes and sports enthusiasts from across the country to participate in the international programme.
PROGRAMME SCHEDULE
– January 21, 2027: International training seminars, technical courses and certification programmes.
– January 22, 2027: Advanced training, belt curriculum, higher-rank Black Belt grading and officials’ certification courses.
– January 23, 2027: IKBF K-1 Kickboxing and Muay Thai Big Challenge Fights Championship.
VENUE
The Institution of Engineers (India) Auditorium, opposite The Indian Express Office, Vidhana Soudha Road, Bengaluru – 560001, Karnataka.
REGISTRATION AND ENQUIRIES
Interested participants can contact:
+91 94490 13790
+91 99860 56161
The organisers have announced limited participation opportunities and encouraged interested individuals and martial arts associations to register in advance.
The initiative is expected to provide a significant platform for Indian martial arts practitioners to gain international exposure, strengthen their technical capabilities and explore opportunities in the global sporting arena.
City Today News 9341997936
You must be logged in to post a comment.