In the ring, victory comes through a cross, an uppercut, and a low kick; in life, victory comes through discipline, determination, and perseverance.
Sultan Imeri is an eighteen-year-old kickboxer who, with 93 matches under his belt, has knocked out not only his opponents but also prejudices and obstacles.
He has won numerous titles and medals at local, national, Balkan, and international kickboxing competitions.
This martial art, formed through a combination of English boxing, taekwondo, Muay Thai, kung fu, and other disciplines, aims to defeat an opponent through superior technique, speed, and strength, while also requiring precision, endurance, fairness, and honour.
“Sport has had a positive impact on my development because it has taught me discipline, perseverance, and self-confidence. As a kickboxer, I have learned how to handle pressure, respect others, and believe in myself,” Sultan said in our conversation.
Although Roma athletes often face prejudice, lack of support, and fewer opportunities for advancement, Sultan is proof that success is still possible through hard work, perseverance, and big dreams.
He encourages young Roma people to believe in themselves and never give up.
“Sport can be a path to a better future, but only with effort, discipline, and perseverance,” Imeri concluded.
The world around us is, in many ways, like a kickboxing match — except the opponents are not in the same category, and the fight is unfair, because in one corner stands an individual, and in the other, a society that must change.
The gong sounds. Sultan continues the fight.