Rickard Nordstrand

1.1. Birth and Youth

Rickard Nordstrand was born on March 14, 1976, in Stockholm County, Sweden. He is a Swedish national and trained at Valfentuna Boxing Camp. He is known for his Muay Thai background and fights with a southpaw stance.

1.2. Other Activities

Beyond his martial arts pursuits, Nordstrand was involved in various other activities, showcasing his versatility and athleticism. He worked as a fashion model and played professional ice hockey.

2.1. Professional Debut and Early Fights

Nordstrand began his professional kickboxing career with a strong foundation in Muay Thai. His early activities saw him engage in various bouts across Sweden and Europe. In 2003, he secured a decision victory over Misa Baculov in Stockholm. He continued to compete in regional events, including the K-1 Scandinavia Grand Prix 2001 in Copenhagen, Denmark, where he won against Ali Reza by decision on June 9, 2001. After a period of absence, Nordstrand made a comeback on August 17, 2013, at Fight Night 08 in Stockholm, Sweden, where he knocked out Sem Braan in the second round with punches.

2.2. K-1 Appearances and Major Fights

Nordstrand notably participated in the globally recognized K-1 circuit, facing several prominent fighters throughout his career. In 2004, he competed in the K-1 Scandinavia 2004 World Qualification in Stockholm, where he defeated Jorgen Himmerstal via TKO in the first round and Roman Kupcak by decision before losing to Brecht Wallis by TKO in the final.

In 2005, Nordstrand was slated to appear in the K-1 World Grand Prix 2005 in Osaka, filling in for Ernest Hoost, who had to withdraw due to a knee injury and worsening atopic dermatitis. However, Nordstrand lost to Ruslan Karaev by decision in the first round. He also competed in the K-1 World Grand Prix 2005 in Hawaii, losing to Musashi by decision, and faced Remy Bonjasky at the K-1 Scandinavia Grand Prix 2005, also losing by decision.

His K-1 appearances continued, including the K-1 Scandinavia Grand Prix 2006 in Stockholm, where he defeated Tsutomu Takahagi by KO and Topi Helin by decision before losing to Magomed Magomedov by decision in the final. He also fought Magomedov to a draw in a super fight at the K-1 World MAX North European Qualification 2007.

A significant event occurred on August 11, 2007, when Nordstrand competed in the K-1 World GP 2007 in Las Vegas, losing to Patrick Barry by KO in the first round of the World Final Elimination tournament. Following this match, a post-fight drug test revealed the presence of prohibited substances, leading to controversy.

2.3. Titles and Accomplishments

Throughout his career, Rickard Nordstrand earned several notable titles and achievements in kickboxing and Muay Thai.

• 2009 WMC World Light Heavyweight Champion
• 2004 IFMA Amateur World Cruiserweight Champion
• 1999 WKA Amateur Kickboxing World Championship 3rd Place
• Five-time IFMA Swedish Muay Thai Champion
• 2004 K-1 World Grand Prix Preliminary Scandinavia Finalist
• 2006 K-1 Scandinavia Grand Prix in Stockholm Finalist

2.4. Kickboxing Record

Rickard Nordstrand's official kickboxing fight record stands at 27 Wins (9 KO's, 18 decisions), 8 Losses, and 2 Draws.

3.1. Major Appearances and Roles

Nordstrand has utilized his athletic and combat skills in the film industry, serving as a stunt double and fight coordinator. He notably worked with actor Mikael Persbrandt on the spy/action Hamilton film series. His presence extended to international television, where he portrayed a warrior in the third season of the critically acclaimed TV drama Game of Thrones. He was also reported to have an unnamed project lined up with Hollywood star Brad Pitt.

4.1. Positive Assessment

Nordstrand was widely recognized for his talent and achievements as a kickboxer, particularly within the K-1 circuit. Standing at 72 in ^{(182 cm)} and weighing 203 lb ^{(92 kg)}, he was known for his effective Muay Thai style and southpaw stance. His handsome appearance earned him the nickname 北欧の伊達王子_{Hokou no Date Ouji}^Japanese, or "Pretty Boy of Northern Europe," which contributed to his public image. His multiple titles, including the WMC World Light Heavyweight Championship and his five-time IFMA Swedish Muay Thai Champion status, underscore his success in the sport.

4.2. Controversies and Criticisms

A notable controversy in Rickard Nordstrand's career arose following his fight against Patrick Barry at the K-1 World GP 2007 in Las Vegas on August 11, 2007. After his KO loss in that bout, a post-fight drug test was conducted, and the results indicated the detection of prohibited substances. This incident cast a shadow over his career, leading to critical perspectives regarding his compliance with anti-doping regulations.