Greek kickboxer Giannis Tsoukalas and his team faced a terrifying attack after his victory at a kickboxing event in Serbia. According to his teammate Pavlos Kochliaridis, the Greek delegation of just four people was overwhelmed by over 100 fans who stormed the ring.
Tsoukalas had just celebrated a knockout win when he knelt in respect toward the opposing team’s supporters and the rival fighter, attempting to prevent conflict. Suddenly, the opponent’s brother struck Tsoukalas, knocking him to the ground. Chaos ensued as the crowd of fans joined the assault.
“We were kicked and punched from behind and the sides, chairs were thrown at us,” Kochliaridis recounted. “For two full minutes, we were being beaten relentlessly before the police intervened.”
The team suffered multiple injuries, including blows to the head and ribs. Authorities are investigating the incident, with eyewitnesses reporting that one hooligan was seen carrying a knife, raising fears of a far worse outcome.
Following the attack, Tsoukalas was taken to a hospital in Belgrade for precautionary medical examinations. Doctors confirmed that his condition was not serious, and he was discharged, returning safely to Greece.
