Work out with a difference: I traded punches with the MMA world champion

TBILISI -- Born and raised in Georgia , 36-year old mixed martial artist, Giorgi Tabatadze is becoming increasingly recognized in MMA circles, with multiple championship belts, victories over world-class opponents, and a reputation as one of the best in the game. He has earned his place as one of the sport’s rising stars.

 From his humble beginnings in Georgia to his rise in the competitive MMA world. Giorgi’s journey into martial arts began at a young age.I was inspired by the athletes of old generation” says Giorgi. Growing up in a country with a rich boxing tradition, Tabatadze was exposed to combat sports early in his life. His journey is full of passion, dedication and unparalleled skills.

 Giorgi quickly found his place within the competitive circuit. Tabatadze was already becoming known in local MMA scenes in Georgia, where he quickly gained attention for his impressive boxing technique. In 2023, the world of MMA witnessed a remarkable transformation with the win of Giorgi who achieved the MMA World Champion title after defeating Moldovan opponent, Sergey Boridovka.

 Tabatadze’s win was a big deal not just for him, but also for Georgia. It was a proud moment for Georgians, as they now had a new champion to celebrate. The champion continues to defend his belt and recalls one of his most memorable fights in his career, which took place in Austria in 2024. Giorgi remembers the last-minute Triumph in the third round. Anything can happen in the blink of an eye. But few moments are as dramatic and thrilling as a last-minute knockout, especially when it comes in the third round after a hard-fought battle. This was exactly the type of victory that Giorgi Tabatadze delivered in his fight. It was a spectacular and bloody fight”-he says.

 Giorgi’s determination and mental toughness are what truly made a differance. MMA is a sport that requires not only physical skill but also the mental fortitude to push through.

 “I wake up early in the morning, train hard, rest and train again in the evening” - explains the champion.

 For years, my best friend Salome and I have been going to the gym, lifting weights, hitting the treadmill, and maintaining a steady routine. But after all that time, we both felt like something was missing. Our workouts had become a routine, almost mechanical, and neither of us felt the same spark of excitement that we once had.

 We needed a challenge, a fresh pursuit that would push our boundaries and revive our passion for fitness.

 That’s when we decided to try boxing. Salome and I had an opportunity to learn the boxing technique with Giorgi, we immediately took the chance and went to the training session in Tbilisi.

 The first time we met him I had the feeling of being in the presence of a true professional. From the very first class, I realized that this was not going to be like any other training session I had experienced.

 Training under Giorgi was nothing short of intense. The session was designed to enhance endurance, strength and flexibility.

 We experienced intense cardio sessions, strength training and technique drills that challenged every part of our body.

 The physical demands were extreme, and there was a constant push to get out of our comfort zone. Boxing made us push each other in ways we hadn’t done before.

 Whether it was sparring, hitting the bag, or simply trying to perfect a punch, we were constantly challenging each other to do better, to be stronger and to keep going.

 Giorgi has the ability to maintain a perfect balance between intensity and controlled teaching. He would challenge us with complex techniques, but he ensured we understood every detail before moving on to the next.

 According to Giorgi the sport is gaining remarkable popularity in Georgia among women, men and children.

 The growth of the sport in Georgia is a testament to the nation’s evolving passion for combat sports, as well as a new understanding of the physical, mental, and social benefits MMA brings.

 Looking ahead, Giorgi Tabatadze seems eager to continue his reign at the top of the MMA world.

 He is preparing for his next fight in April in France.

 With his championship now firmly in hand, the future for Giorgi Tabatadze is bright, and fans around the world will be watching closely as he continues his journey to become a champion once again and defend his title.

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Giorgi Tabatadze
Salome and I during the session

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