Kyokushin karate world champion Viktor Vasilev from SC “Katana” and his coach, Sensei Samir Mutishev, were officially received by the Mayor of Veliko Tarnovo Municipality, Eng. Daniel Panov. The meeting was held on the occasion of the outstanding success of the young athlete, who brought a world title to Bulgaria and brought glory to the old capital at the highest international sports forum.
“Viktor’s title is a source of pride for the old capital and for Bulgaria. I presented him with the Old Capital Certificate and the honorary plaque ‘Veliko Tarnovo – Historical and Spiritual Capital.’ I wished our talented young athlete and his coach, Sensei Samir Mutishev, many more achievements that will raise the prestige of Veliko Tarnovo and ensure that our city is spoken of positively around the world,” said Mayor Daniel Panov.
Viktor Vasilev’s success is part of the strong performance of the Bulgarian Karate Kyokushin Federation (BKKF) at the KWF World Championship, held in Saudi Arabia on 12–13 December. Bulgaria’s national team achieved an impressive tally of three world titles, two silver medals, and four bronze medals, firmly establishing the country among the leading forces in Kyokushin karate on a global level.
Viktor Vasilev, a student of Sensei Samir Mutishev, triumphed in the –60 kg category for boys aged 16–17. On his path to the gold medal in Riyadh, he recorded three decisive victories by ippon over opponents from Kazakhstan, Russia, and Iraq, demonstrating excellent preparation, character, and fighting spirit.
The year 2025 is shaping up to be exceptionally successful for the young athlete. In addition to the world title, Viktor Vasilev is a Bulgarian champion, winner of the Kyokushin Karate World Cup in Varna, and a bronze medalist at the European Kickboxing Championship. His achievements are the result of hard work, discipline, and the dedication of his coach and sports club.
The successes of Viktor Vasilev and SC “Katana” are yet another confirmation that Veliko Tarnovo continues to produce champions and remains an important center for the development of Bulgarian sport.
