Ernesto Hoost: I understand Badr Hari's decision to move to Boxing

"I think something has to be changed very quickly. A lot of people [referring to the government] in Holland are trying to prevent kickboxing events from happening. It's a threat, and I think we have to take it very seriously. In such situation, it's hard for fighters to make money and they are looking elsewhere. K-1 in its prime was a great platfom for fighters to make money, but now they are earning less and less. They see money in the UFC, and that's where they want to go.

I understand Badr Hari's decision, let me put it like that. Only time will tell whether it's a good one, but I perfectly understand it."

Kickboxing legend Ernesto "Mr. Perfect" Hoost shared his thoughts about the current state of kickboxing, speaking exclusively to LowKick.com, backstage at It's Showtime: Badr Hari vs. Gokhan Saki in Leeuwarden, the Netherlands. Hoost was cornering Tyrone Spong, who defeated the long-time rival Melvin Manhoef via a clean 5-0 decision.

Hoost's comments are indeed worrying, but I think it's important to note that kickboxing is still highly popular in the Netherlands. It's Showtime 55 was sold out (or 95% sold out), while the fan/media buzz around this event started back in September.

Being one of the most decorated fighters in the sport where you are allowed to punch and kick, Hoost competed in more than 100 kickboxing bouts, winning four major K-1 titles in 97, 99, 2000 and 2002. Hoost also spoke about sharpening Fedor Emelianenko's striking skills, claiming that despite being "not as a good as before", the Russian still has what it takes to re-claim his spot as the best fighter on the planet.

We still have tons of It's Showtime 55 coverage to share! Stay tuned to LowKick.com for interviews with Tyrone Spong, Ben Edwards, Anderson "Braddock" Silva, and exclusive behind the scenes footage!