A CAGE fighter is looking to pull together his own stable of ‘ultimate warriors’ to follow in the footsteps of East Lancashire’s Michael Bisping.

Declan 'Kid Dynamite' Williams, 26, from Edgeside, has been blazing his own trail in the tough world of mixed martial arts (MMA).

But he is also head coach of the Waterfoot-based Team Warriors Elite and is looking to find the next Bisping or Dan Hardy, another British fighter.

Declan runs the Albion Mill gym with his brother Sean and has a clutch of contenders, including Richard 'The Razor' Belcher, James 'The Future' Williams and Chris 'The Bull' Noon.

And last night he staged the second of his own promoted cards, at St Mary’s Chambers, in Rawtenstall, under the banner of Controlled Aggression.

He said: “There are a few lads here who are looking to get into coaching and bringing along some new fighters.

“We are trying to branch out really and get more people involved. We’ve got instructors in karate, kick boxing, Thai boxing and boxing.

“Mixed martial arts can real help with your cardio and fitness, and keep you healthy. I was a bit heavy when I first started but you burn it off when you are in there grappling.”

Established for just over 18 months, the gym has a mini-cage, for practice sessions. The club also has its first female fighter, in Steph Burrows, who will also be on hand to offer advice for potential recruits.

The success of the likes of Bisping has led to a huge growth in popularity for the sport, with increased television coverage and exposure.

Anyone interested in joining the club can call Declan on 07526 783252 or call in at the gym, in Burnley Road East.