YOUNG Scott Walker stepped into the ring for only the second time in his career – and stepped out of it as the proud holder of the full contact kickboxing junior English title.

The 13-year-old from Blackburn only took up the sport of kickboxing around a year ago and showed off his huge potential as he beat reigning champion Thomas Bale in a thrilling contest in front of a packed crowd at Accrington’s New Era Sports Centre.

It was a remarkable achievement for Scott, who worked hard in training ahead of the fight – and for the previous 12 months.

He had only been in the ring once before and was thrilled to win the title and paid tribute to his back-up team for all their help.

“I trained really hard for the fight,” he said. “I would like to thank my instructors, family and the club for their support.

“I would also like to thank Billy Battrick from Fit To Fight Kickboxing Club in Accrington for their support and giving me the opportunity to fight at a national level.”

Scott, who trains at Blackburn’s Phoenix Kick-boxing Academy, Livesey Children and All Age Centre, is coached by Dave Garth and Paul Fleck and they are full of praise for his efforts after he beat Knutsford’s Blake via a split decision after five rounds of quality kick-boxing.

“It was always going to be a hard fight to win, especially with it being for an English Title cha-mpionship” said Garth.

“Nevertheless it was a great performance from Scott and a very proud moment for our whole club.

“Scott had trained extremely hard for the fight and we were confident that he could go out and win.

“He fully deserved the win and we are just so proud of him.”