A RISING kickboxing star is preparing for the fight of his life - a shot at a national title.

Wesley Paul Fagan, 21, of Dipton, near Consett, takes on Michael Johnson of Sunderland on Wednesday, June 25.

The victor will be crowned the European Kickboxing Commission's British super middleweight champ.

Mr Fagan, who is ranked the UK's number one fighter at his weight, is contesting the vacant title after the previous holder retired.

He has been putting in extra hours at the Masac gym in Annfield Plain, near Stanley, with trainer Goff Bates.

The bout will take place in Stanley Central Workingmen's Club, Stanley. The doors open at 6.30pm. Tickets are £10 for adults or £7 for children and will be available on the door.