The semi-finals of the GAMMA European Championships took place on Saturday 18th May and saw several medallists and top seeds enter the MMA arena in pursuit of their prizes. Cristian Constantinov's (MDA) stunning first round KO was a highlight. 

Organised by the Slovak MMA Association (SOMMA) at the Bellevue Hotel in Vysoké Tatry, the Continental MMA and Striking MMA tournaments progressed to the senior finals, complete with medal giving ceremonies.

It was a successful day for returning GAMMA medallists. In the MMA competition, Natalie Trikalova (CZE), the 2022 European silver medallist and 2021 World bronze medallist, defeated Wiktoria Klepacka (POL) by unanimous decision to advance to the final of the 61kg category.

The 2021 European Striking MMA silver medallist, Denis Malikov (AZE), secured a second round submission victory over Stamoulis Apostolos (GRE) in the 65.8 kg weight class.

One of the most popular and eagerly anticipated fighters was Polish heavyweight and two-time GAMMA champion Iwo Baraniewski (2022 Euros; 2021 Worlds). He dominated with a 38-second TKO win over Gabriel Tysz (SVK).

Two GAMMA medallists clashed in the 61.2kg category, with 2022 European bronze medallist Pawel Grzeszczak (POL) defeating 2022 European Striking MMA gold medallist Richard Dobrotka with a 25-second submission. Meanwhile, 2023 World silver medallist Daniele Scagliusi (ITA) made it to the finals by Walkover due to the medical suspension of Dur Berkan (GER). 

In Striking MMA, David Velíšek (CZE), 2021 World bronze medallist, defeated Daniels Freibergs (LAT) in the second round by submission at 77.1kg, having lost his MMA match earlier in the day. Finally, 2021 bronze medallist Adam Neupauer (SVK) defeated Denis Mikolajek (CZE) by TKO in the first round.

Unfortunately, Irish prospect Indra Davis withdrew from the tournament due to illness. Lorena Cubero of Germany was given a walkover.