His 1st New York Open was in 2008. Since then, Maxime Demeautis (1.85 m, 94 kg) has expanded his track record and expanded his field of action. Kick, Boxing, ProFight... He always comes back to Kyokushin. This weekend, he attends his 9th New York Open (June 22-23).
5th in the last European championships, beaten by Ieromenko in the ½ final, 7 times winner, the French knows that “if there is anything to do", it is the year or never.
This father of 3, who owns a Max Gym Club in Caen, always finds time to train. He is ready…
By Ludovic Mauchien / Photos: DR
Your 1st New York Open?
It was in 2008. It was the "big" open with all the stars of the moment ! I was 22 years old and it was my first tournament on such a level. It's a very good memory. I make Top 16 on about 60 fighters. To everyone's surprise, I eliminated in the 2nd round a Canadian who was a favorite and I lost in the round of 16 against a Spanish at the decision.
In truth, I did not know where I was going. I was so amazed by the trip and the prestige of the competition that I got carried away by all this and I felt no pressure. It's cool to fight in the US. In addition, the level is crazy ! Everybody is here !
You're going to live your 9th New York Open. What's your biggest thing about it ?
Fight Damianov in 2015, when he made World Open champion the same year. Facing the best, the legends of Kyoku, Texeira, Kurbanov...
Your ambitions ?
Make a Top 8. With Japanese, Russians, Brazilians... The level is going to be tough. I want to make a big impression for the Open World championships next November. Even if I am already qualified with my 5th place at the European championships, I want to show that I am present and rank at best for the draw of November.
Your preparation for New York?
I am in a fairly continuous shape since I fight often. Since it's an Open, the fact that I'm a heavyweight does not change anything for me. I do not have any particular preparation. My form weight is 94 kg
"I HAVE A SUPER WOMAN"
Your training?
I opened a cross training room, boxing training, cardio in Caen, the Max Gym Club. So, my training is muscular explosivity work in the morning and cardio work (bag, pao) in the afternoon. 3 hours a day, 5 days a week.
For sparring, it's a bit more complicated. Every weekend, when I am in preparation, I go to Paris to work with Djema (Belkodja) and Antonio (Tusseau).
Your most dangerous opponent?
Myself. I have to fight against tiredness and pain, to be able to surpass myself and cash the opponent's strikes.
How do you manage your family life (3 children), a club and your training?
I have a great wife.
Do you already think about the November World Open Tournament ?
Yes, it's my 3rd and maybe my last. And, if there is anything to do, it's this year. I am in a good dynamic and a Top 8 would be great. Even if, like any fighter, I aspire to be world champion.
"It may be my last." Does this give you extra pressure ?
No, it's the opposite. I enjoy every moment. Younger, I wanted to be the champion at all costs. Now, I am more realistic and I take the events one after the other to savor a maximum.
