On February 21, 2025, at the KSW 103 event held in Liberec, Czech Republic, Damian Piwowarczyk achieved a spectacular victory by knocking out Bartosz Szewczyk just three minutes and nineteen seconds after the fight commenced. This co-main event showcased the determination of both fighters, each of whom sought redemption following prior losses.
Piwowarczyk, entering the ring with a record of 8-4, faced former FEN champion Bartosz Szewczyk, who was making his debut at KSW. Both fighters aimed to bounce back from recent setbacks, as Piwowarczyk had suffered two consecutive losses, and Szewczyk had experienced challenges outside of the KSW, trying unsuccessfully to make his way to the UFC through Dana White’s Contender Series.
The first round began with both fighters actively exchanging punches and kicks. Szewczyk attempted to create advantages with powerful strikes, finding initial success with two solid hits early on. Piwowarczyk, staying composed, focused primarily on low kicks, effectively using calf kicks to limit Szewczyk's movement and build momentum.
Szewczyk pressed forward, attempting to seize the center of the octagon and apply pressure on his opponent. Despite his initial advantage, Piwowarczyk remained patient, waiting for the correct moment to counter-attack. When the opportunity arose, he executed precise strikes, disrupting Szewczyk with his effective combinations.
Key moments defined the fight’s climax. After expertly avoiding several attacks, Piwowarczyk landed left punches and consistent low kicks, which began to take their toll on Szewczyk by the second half of the first round. With momentum shifting, Piwowarczyk intensified his assault and successfully caught Szewczyk with decisive strikes, forcing the former champion to the canvas.
Referee Łukasz Bosacki saw how Szewczyk was struggling and made the right decision to halt the bout, declaring Piwowarczyk the winner by knockout. This stunning victory not only marked Piwowarczyk's return to form but also solidified his standing within the KSW, now boasting a record of 9-4.
Piwowarczyk’s performance was commendable, showcasing his improved skill set and tactical acumen after facing defeat previously at XTB KSW 98. Over his KSW career, he has participated in significant bouts, including competing for the light heavyweight title but falling short against Rafał Haratyk. With this latest victory, Piwowarczyk aims to gather momentum as he fancies new title opportunities.
For Szewczyk, this bout marked the beginning of his KSW career. Though disappointed with the outcome, he had previously earned the FEN light heavyweight title and his experience will surely play as he charts his course forward in this competitive arena.
With his knockout win, Piwowarczyk has firmly positioned himself among the ranks of notable fighters within KSW, making heads turn and inviting future matchups against top contenders. This encounter at KSW 103 has not only energized Piwowarczyk’s career but has certainly set the stage for Szewczyk to regroup and make adjustments for his next challenge.