Krutý after loss to American: “I believe I was born for this sport”
Slovak junior national team member Samuel Krutý (up to 61.2 kg, Spartakus Fight Gym) lost on points to Max Stary of the USA at the 2026 IMMAF World Championships in Tbilisi. The verdict still angers him, but he respects it. National team coach Richard Konc speaks of a valuable lesson and the 18-year-old’s great potential.
“I took the verdict angrily and, I admit, I still feel the same today. But the judges’ decision was correct and I have to respect it,” said Krutý. He came home from Georgia without injury, though “my heart still hurts a little”.
He says the game plan prepared with his coach was not followed 100%, and the American surprised him mainly with his strength. “I have to work on that area,” he admitted.
Coach: details decided it
Richard Konc sees the fight as experience rather than a defeat. “At this level even a small thing can affect the scoring. The opponent was able to use some situations to his advantage,” he said. “Samuel is still only 18 and has plenty of room to grow.”
He sees the gap between the world elite and Slovakia in quality, experience and readiness. “Slovakia has talented athletes, but there is still room to improve conditions and systematic preparation.” He rates the overall performance of the Slovak team in Tbilisi, including Michal Kuzma’s knockout, positively.
Target: World and European gold
Krutý does not hide his ambitions. “My goal is to win the IMMAF World and European Championships. I know it will come. I believe I was born for this sport,” he said. He would like to represent Slovakia at the 2027 IMMAF Europeans in Belgrade.
Selection for Belgrade will also be decided at MAMMAL 65 Special (22 Nov 2026, Trenčín) and MAMMAL 66 (20 Dec 2026, Partizánske). According to Konc, current form, results, discipline and the ability to compete internationally should decide.
