Just a few days ago, Dokaj was declared champion in Toronto, Canada, for the same sport by defeating his opponent in the 84 kg weight class. The Albanian athlete, originally from Hoti i Malësisë së Madhe, has recently emigrated to Canada, not leaving behind his dreams and achievements.
With great desire and passion, he continues to pursue his clear objectives, not giving up on prestigious championships in this discipline. Now, Albanian names that have established a secure career in North America are no longer uncommon. What remains extraordinary is the will and desire to achieve and open doors to success.
Contacted by “Albanian Montreal Press,” Dokaj shares more about his new life and future projects.
Dorian, can you tell us a bit more about your life in Canada and how it has changed?
Life in Canada has changed a lot, of course. For some time, I felt a lack of freedom; things don’t always go as you wish, but through hard work, I believe everyone here gets what they deserve.
Introduce us a bit more to the team that trains you and how much time do you spend training each day?
In Albania, I was trained by master Elion Puka, who has helped me immensely, and I am grateful to him for life. Here, my trainers are Robert Santos and Matt Embree. Coach Robert is a UFC coach who trains with Misha Cirkunov, a UFC contender and grappler who works hard with me. Coach Matt Embree is a two-time world champion in Muay Thai and Kickboxing.
I train extensively with both of them. Thanks to God and their support, I have achieved my current results. I spend about 4-5 hours training each day, divided according to the schedule set by the trainers.
Why did you decide to take up martial arts?
Martial arts is a school where the more you dedicate yourself, the more you learn and the more you have to learn. God gives everyone talent and inclination for something. This was a gift from Him, and I am grateful.
How many victories do you have in your career? Can you highlight any of them?
I have 6 fights in MMA, 6 wins, and 0 losses. I was declared champion in Canada on June 22, after a 5-round fight where I managed to seize the victory.
What are your goals for the future?
There are many plans for the future. I have the right to go to Dubai to fight for the World Championship. We hope to succeed since I came here as a refugee and am in the immigration process. The World Championship will be held from November 9-16, where I have earned the right from the Canadian Federation to represent Canada in my weight class.
We hope to get some support from the Government to make it possible because if we achieve success, we will contract with the world’s largest MMA company, which is UFC. UFC is the ultimate goal, and with God’s hope and the help of my trainers, I hope to bring the UFC title one day.