Greek-Australian kickboxer Manos Milios (also known in the sport as Emmanuel Greco) has won the IKBF Intercontinental Title in the 78-kg category.

Milios told Neos Kosmos that the win was dedicated to his late best friend.

“This recent win was dedicated to my best friend Alex Alipan, who passed away recently, it was a hard and emotional camp to say the least,” he said.

The fighter, who carries the name of his father, the late Neos Kosmos journalist Manos Milios, honours his Greek heritage in every appearance.

Each time he enters the ring he holds the Greek flag, a gesture that has deeply moved the Greek-Australian community.

His mother, Anastasia Milios (also a former Neos Kosmos journalist), expresses pride in his achievements and supports him at every step.

Now Millios has his sights set on the next big fight in Athens, which he said will very sentimental.

“I am really looking forward to this fight. It is a great joy that I will compete in the capital of my beloved Greece,” he said.

“My father Manos Milios Snr was born there and left Greece in chase of his footballing career. Sixty years later I’ll be returning to Athens as a professional athlete in my own right.

“It’s a full circle moment.”