The Battle of Krichim

After taking power, Kaloyan managed his relations carefully with the Byzantine emperor, Ivanko and other boyars who had broken away from the state, including Dobromir Chrysos and John Spyridonakes. He reached a political agreement with Ivanko, compelling him to enter into conflict with Byzantium. Emperor Alexios III Angelos tried unsuccessfully to win Ivanko back to his side. After negotiations failed, the emperor sent troops against him in 1198 under Manuel Kamytzes. The battle took place at Krichim Fortress.

Ivanko defeated the Byzantine army and captured Manuel Kamytzes. Byzantine forces continued fighting him. Eventually, the emperor promised him political power in Constantinople, and Ivanko took the bait and was imprisoned. He was thus eliminated as a threat to Byzantium.