Absolute Kyokushin karate world champion and legendary Brazilian kickboxer Francisco Filho has arrived in Armenia. The 55-year-old athlete will conduct a seminar from February 27 to March 1 at the Olympavan sports complex in Yerevan.
Filho arrived in Yerevan at the invitation of Andranik Hakobyan, founder and president of the Armenian Kyokushin Karate Federation, Factor.am reports.
Francisco Filho began practicing Kyokushin karate at the age of 10 and earned his black belt six and a half years later. He has fought more than 100 bouts in Brazil and Japan, winning numerous championship titles.
In 1997, Filho also made his debut in K-1, becoming one of the most renowned figures in world kickboxing. He won the K-1 World Grand Prix title in Japan twice.
After retiring in 2004, Filho became actively involved in the development of Kyokushin karate. He led the sport’s development in Brazil and across South America. Francisco Filho has trained prominent fighters, including UFC Hall of Fame member Vitor Belfort. In 2012, he served as a coach for the well-known Brazilian fighter during a UFC mixed martial arts bout.
