The Montauban kick boxing (MKB) resident is playing his second major competition with his new club this week.
If he has excelled in the noble art for many years, Aymerik Tessier is also doing very well in kickboxing since he joined Montauban kick boxing (MKB). After a first World Cup with France in full a few months ago, this time he is attacking at the European Championship.
Will you go back to Turkey?
My first full experience with France was already in Turkey, in Istanbul, but here we go to Antalya.
Was this first World Cup a good memory or a bad memory?
(smiles) I won a nice bronze medal, but a medal that might be a bit bitter. I beat first a Turk, then one of the favorites, before falling against the European champion and world champion, another Turk. I am frustrated with this defeat because I was stopped before the limit, in the first round. I am moved but they stop me directly, without counting me, as usually happens. I was not at all oblivious and should have continued. But the European champion is Turkish, so he can help fight at home. I’ll be back with a little taste of revenge because I think I didn’t follow what I could do. I hope this time to show that I can go all the way because obviously this is the title I aim for in my 86 kg category.
Was this selection easy to win?
It went well in the World Cup, then in the various training courses that I was able to do too. In September there were the selections to form the team and they kept me (smile). I am very happy because the place is never acquired; you always have to prove that you belong.
The competition starts on Friday 11 November. Is the pressure increasing?
I still have a few pounds to lose (smiles). The pressure was there, but the closer you get to the event, the more that pressure turns into arousal. I no longer have the fear of knowing where to set foot. The World Cup allowed me to remove this apprehension. I know I have the potential to get results; it’s easier for me to project myself.
Are your opponents the same?
Some yes. They know me too. At the top of the pyramid, everyone knows each other.
What is this step to take to get gold?
Gain more and more international experience. This is my first real year in standing-fists; my third fight was in the World Cup. I think it’s unheard of in the French team.
What can this competition change for you?
A lot of things. This can open the door to senior status, allow me to contribute to my retirement. I’m not going to make a living with it, but it can change things in everyday life.
Your club has joined the Jacques-Chirac complex. What is the difference ?
(All smiles) I am very often in the gym, at MKB but also at the English boxing club. The ring, the bags, the space, everything is perfect here.
