Şampiyon (The Champion) is an emotionally charged Turkish drama that explores the themes of redemption, fatherly love, and the spirit of perseverance. It originally aired on TRT 1 in September 2019 and ran for 34 episodes. The series stars Tolgahan Sayışman as Fırat Bölükbaşı, also known as Kafkas, a once-promising and undefeated boxer whose life takes a tragic turn after a fatal match. His journey is marked by loss, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to his son, Güneş, played by Emir Özyakışır.
Fırat’s boxing career is derailed after he accidentally kills his opponent in the ring, leading to devastating personal consequences. He loses his career, his wife, and is left to care for his young son GüneÅŸ, who suffers from a hereditary illness. Years later, to provide for GüneÅŸ and fight for his future, Fırat decides to return to the ring, driven by the motto: “One More Round.”
The series also features Yıldız ÇaÄŸrı Atiksoy as Suna, a compassionate doctor who becomes a love interest for Fırat, and Erdal ÖzyaÄŸcılar as Yaman Günaltay, Fırat’s strict but caring boxing coach. The narrative is packed with intense emotional moments, high-stakes drama, and the enduring strength of a father’s love.