Benjamin Adegbuyi is set to make his return at SENSHI 31, carrying the impactful memory of his third-round knockout victory over Badr Hari at GLORY 76. This win remains a significant highlight in the career of the heavyweight contender, who has consistently competed at the highest level of kickboxing for years.
Adegbuyi, known for his challenging bouts against elite opponents, including two title fights against Rico Verhoeven for the GLORY heavyweight championship, has established himself as a formidable force. SENSHI highlights his extensive record of 35 wins, with 20 coming by knockout, against 10 losses and one no contest. His tournament victories at GLORY 24 and 50 further cemented his reputation as a significant heavyweight threat.
The knockout of Badr Hari was a pivotal moment for Adegbuyi, occurring at a time when he was already recognized but seeking a definitive win against a legendary name. Hari, a long-standing prominent figure in heavyweight kickboxing, represented a major scalp. Adegbuyi himself ranks this victory among his career’s top achievements, alongside his championship challenges.
Now, Adegbuyi is preparing to compete again on May 30 at SENSHI 31 in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. He is scheduled to face Bulgarian heavyweight Daniel Dinev in a super fight in the 95+ kg category at the historic Ancient Theatre. This unique venue, a Roman-era site known for hosting spectacles like gladiator matches, will provide a dramatic backdrop for the bout.
Dinev brings an impressive pedigree to the fight, boasting a record of 14-time Bulgarian heavyweight championship titles, a bronze medal from the 2023 World Championships, a silver medal from the 2024 European Championships, two World Cup victories in 2024 and 2025, and the 2025 European Cup title. This formidable resume positions him as a strong contender in one of the card’s most anticipated matchups.
For Adegbuyi, this fight represents an opportunity to reaffirm his position among elite heavyweights after years of facing top-tier competition. He expressed confidence and eagerness to return to the ring, emphasizing SENSHI’s values of respect and sportsmanship while vowing to “just be myself.” This approach reflects a veteran fighter who relies on experience and power.
Adegbuyi also stated that he expects Dinev to bring his best, as he is looking to test himself against the highest level of competition. The inherent risk in such a short fight is clear for both competitors, as a single powerful shot can decisively end the bout.
SENSHI 31 features more than just the heavyweight showdown. The main event is an eight-man 70 kg Grand Prix, with quarterfinal matchups including Angelo Volpe vs. Samo Petje, Aissam Chadid vs. Bruno Gazani, Hirokatsu Miyagi vs. Dragomir Petrov, and Zehao Zhang vs. Marian Lapusneanu. The event also includes reserve bouts and other super fights, such as Bart Horvath vs. Atanas Bozhilov at 75 kg and Mantas Rimdeika vs. Thomas Bridgewater at 95+ kg.
Having spent years in high-stakes fights, carrying the pressure of title contention, and maintaining a prominent presence in the heavyweight division, Adegbuyi’s knockout of Badr Hari remains a testament to his capabilities. SENSHI 31 offers him another platform to demonstrate that he still possesses considerable skill and power. If Adegbuyi brings his top form to Plovdiv, the fight could conclude swiftly.
