For Pavol, Power Slap 17 isn’t just another fight — it’s a chance to prove years of hard work were worth it. The Slovakian striker has already tested himself in the Slap Fight Championship, but now he’s bringing his experience, passion, and determination to the world’s biggest stage in slap fighting.
From Slap Fight Championship to Power Slap
“The rules are a little bit different,” Pavol said. “I had to adjust my training and my focus toward Power Slap rules. But the experience I got — reacting to the crowd, the cameras, the atmosphere — that helped a lot. Now I know how it feels, and I want to feel it again.”
He explained that while the foundation of his training stayed the same, adapting to the new defensive stance and hand positioning required a new level of focus. “Before, we could have our hands forward — now it’s behind the back. It’s all about tensing the neck differently, controlling the body. I’ve learned a lot, and I’m ready.”
A lifelong martial artist finding new purpose
For a man who’s spent most of his life in martial arts, Power Slap has reignited Pavol’s competitive fire. “I’ve been doing sports and martial arts for almost all my life,” he said. “But I’m too old now to start from zero in boxing or MMA. Power Slap gave me a chance to compete in a big league — it’s a dream come true. It’s given me so much energy, and I’m super hyped.”
Fighting for something bigger
When asked what motivates him, Pavol didn’t hesitate. “This is for me — to prove that all these years of training are paying off. But it’s also a message to people around me,” he said.
He spoke passionately about representing his home region in Central Europe, where opportunities in combat sports are limited. “Many people here give up on their dreams because nothing seems to happen. By doing this, I want to show that if you stay focused, life gives it back. I want to prove that persistence pays off.”
Aiming for the top
Pavol isn’t here just to participate — he’s here to make a statement. “I aspire for the highest goals possible,” he said. “I want to work my way up through the rankings and become a champion in my weight division. That’s the dream. Once people start noticing you, doors open. I want to use this opportunity to build a better life — to finally make something big out of myself.”
Studying his opponent, Mirza
Pavol has already done his homework on his upcoming opponent. “I checked him out — he’s a good guy,” he said. “One fight, one loss — that doesn’t mean anything. He’s going to be hungry this time. I wish him good preparation and no injuries. I want him ready because I’ll be ready too. Let’s give people a great fight.”
Keys to victory
For Pavol, success isn’t about size or strength — it’s about precision and mindset. “You’ve got one shot,” he explained. “It’s about explosion and accuracy. You need to connect perfectly. I train my traps and jaw to take the hit, but mentally, that’s just as important. These fights are often decided in the mind.”
He believes being mentally prepared is what separates winners from the rest. “When I know I’ve done everything I can in preparation, my mind is in the right place. You’ve got to remember why you’re there, who you are, and what this opportunity means. That gives you the perfect mindset to perform.”
Adjusting to Power Slap rules
Unlike other slap fighting formats, Power Slap has stricter rules and a unique stance. Pavol has taken time to master these details. “The smaller table actually helps me,” he said. “I’m not tall, so the shorter distance works in my favor. Keeping the heels down — that’s crucial. I’ve been training for that, even under pressure. And having the hands behind the back exposes the chin more, but it’s fair. It makes things clean and honest.”
A message to Mirza
When asked if he had anything to say to his opponent, Pavol kept it simple and respectful. “Good luck — let the better man win. There’s no bad blood. We’re two athletes, two gladiators. Whoever wants it more will get it. It’s going to be a great fight and a great night.”
Ready for Power Slap 17
Pavol’s focus is clear. He’s not just fighting to win — he’s fighting to inspire. “This means everything to me,” he said. “All the training, all the sacrifices, it’s all for this moment. I’m ready.”
Power Slap 17 will showcase new global talent — and Pavol is determined to show the world that dreams, hard work, and discipline still pay off.