Agdeve grew up in challenging circumstances. His father worked construction to support the family while his mother managed their household. He shared cramped living quarters with two older brothers and moved frequently as his family sought better opportunities.
He discovered kickboxing at age 9, progressing from point-fighting to full-contact competition. Local junior tournament victories built his regional reputation, but financial constraints prevented him from attending university. He took small jobs between training sessions while maintaining his competitive ambitions.
His mother’s cancer diagnosis intensified the family’s struggles. Agdeve balanced caregiving responsibilities with his training schedule, refusing to abandon his athletic pursuits despite the difficult circumstances.
“My mother had cancer. I had to take care of her with my father,” he said.
“But I never quit training. Even in tough times, I didn’t stop. My mother used to say, ‘When you rise, you’ll tell these stories,’ and I promised I would.”
At 18, he left Turkey for Stuttgart, Germany, seeking better training opportunities and stronger competition. His arrival with minimal resources created immediate hardship. He slept outdoors and worked construction during the day, taking security jobs at night when available.
“I struggled a lot,” said Agdeve.
“I slept on the streets, I got stabbed, I went hungry. I worked in construction. At night I worked security. My wife supported me so much in those times – I can’t repay her.”
The move to Germany provided access to better sparring partners and tougher opponents than Turkey’s kickboxing scene could offer. European gyms gave him the training partners necessary for heavyweight development, refining his defensive skills and timing against quality opposition.
Agdeve turned professional in March 2022, compiling a perfect 17-0 record with 12 knockout victories. His aggressive forward pressure and combination striking separated him from typical heavyweight fighters. His breakout performance came at the SENSHI Heavyweight Grand Prix, where he defeated three opponents in one evening to capture the tournament championship.
That performance caught ONE Championship’s attention and led to his title shot. Few fighters receive championship opportunities in their promotional debuts, but Agdeve’s undefeated record and finishing ability convinced matchmakers he belonged at that level.
“Fight sports taught me to read people,” said Agdeve.
“I can analyze characters and keep my distance. But I never became arrogant. I keep moving on my path.”
