Alina Kohli Wins SM Gold at Just 16
With only 16 years of age, Alina Kohli from the Gstaad Kickboxing Sport Club celebrated a remarkable victory in her very first appearance in the ring. Recognized as one of the club’s greatest young talents, Kohli has opened a new chapter in her career: her debut ended with a spectacular win and a gold medal.
First Time at the SCOS Swiss Championships
At the SCOS Swiss Championships – 5th Qualification Round (Ring A), under K-1 rules (three rounds of two minutes each, no elbow strikes, limited clinching), Kohli defeated her opponent with a clear 3:0 victory, celebrating an impressive debut.
“Alina was a bit nervous before the fight since it was her very first time in the ring. But as soon as the fight began, she became calm, fully focused, and gave one hundred percent,” said coach Cüneyt Gunes.
Tatami Discipline vs. Ring
Compared to the tatami discipline, fighting in the ring represents a much greater challenge. Under K-1 rules, punches, kicks, and knee strikes are allowed, but clinching is limited and elbow techniques are prohibited. Despite these demanding conditions, Kohli displayed her fighting spirit, precise technique, and powerful combinations – proving that she belongs on the big stage.
Her opponent was three years older, and although Alina had just turned 16, she did not compete in the junior category but in the senior class. “That showed great courage,” said Gunes. “Despite her young age, her punches are extraordinarily powerful, and her boxing skills are very strong. This combination makes her a highly challenging and intimidating opponent.”
Guided by her coach, Kohli’s victory highlighted not only her skills but also her determination and dedication. With this triumph, she has set the tone for a promising future.
“Spectators and the martial arts community agree: Alina Kohli’s debut is just the beginning of many victories to come,” confirmed Gunes.
Success in the Tatami Discipline
Before stepping into the ring, Alina had already built an impressive record in tatami disciplines, where striking power is limited to 50% and the focus lies on speed and technique. There, she had already won six gold medals and had been officially crowned Swiss Champion twice.
The Tatami Discipline vs. Ring
Tatami Discipline
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Fought on mats (tatami)
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Striking power limited (max. 50%)
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Focus on speed and technique
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No full contact, low risk of injury
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Punches and kicks allowed but without hard impact
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No clinching
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Elbow techniques prohibited
Ring (K-1 Rules)
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Fought inside the ring
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Full striking power allowed
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Focus on strength, technique, and endurance
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Full contact, higher intensity
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Punches, kicks, and knee strikes allowed
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Limited clinching
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Elbow techniques prohibited
Alina Kohli’s Achievements
Bern Cup
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🥇 Gold – Kick Light Juniors +160cm
Rüti Cup
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🥇 Gold – Light Contact Juniors 160kg
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🥇 Gold – Kick Light Juniors +160cm
Basel Dynamic Cup
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🥇 Gold – Kick Light Juniors +160cm
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🥇 Gold – Kick Light Juniors 16/18 +60kg
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🥇 Gold – Light Contact Juniors 16/18 +60kg