DARLINGTON teenager Jordan Murphy heads to Thailand this week for an intensive spell of Thai boxing training ahead of a major upcoming event.

Murphy will train at the Lamai gym on Ko Samui Island prior to being part of a UK team of 13 competitors at the World Muay Thai Youth Championships next month.

The event, organised by sanctioning body IFMA, gets underway on Wednesday, September 11 and runs for nine days.

"I was delighted to receive my letter to say I'd been selected," the 15-year-old tells the Northern Echo.

"It came just after I got back from winning a bout in Belgium. This is my second time at this championship.

"In 2021 I won a silver medal. I’ve since represented the UK in Malaysia where I won gold and twice in Turkey last year.

"I love all types of combat sports and have done K1, a form of kickboxing, but Muay Thai is my favourite.

"It’s the toughest and most brutal sport imaginable and I’ve won titles in both British and international tournaments."

Murphy began his Thai boxing training 10 years ago when he was just five and is still coached by Michael Dicks at his Fight and Fitness gym.

Dicks is himself a former twice world champion Thai boxer.

Jordan said: "I’m there five days a week and have a weekly strength and conditioning session at 3D Strength.

"I spar with boxers when I can. I always wanted to fight but Muay Thai has also given me the opportunity to travel the world and especially get familiar with Thai culture. I’d encourage any boys and girls to take up this sport. Just doing the training brings so many benefits."

Jordan’s dad Alan is his son’s biggest supporter.

He said: "He’s an amazing person. He’s an elite athlete and highly regarded within the British Muay Thai team having on occasion been captain.

"The sport has taught him discipline, respect for others and resilience. He’s made some strong friendships but he’s also a regular boy who relaxes fishing."

Coach Dicks said: "Jordan is hard-working and dedicated to Muay Thai. He’s a talented lad, responsive to training and has a brilliant future in the sport as a potential top-level fighter."

Jodan added: At present I wear headguards and other protective gear in a fight, but I can’t wait to get rid of it and fight as a professional.

"I’m grateful to my coach Michael Dicks for all his work helping me progress."

Jordan also thanked his sponsors, including Kings Jewellers, DP Window & Pressure Cleaning Services, LJ Barbers, 3D Strength, Grab and Go, Physique Health Club, SG Petch, Advantage Signz, Straight Up Scaffolding Services and @cameronrkh.’

Companies or individuals wanting to support Jordan becoming a professional fighter should contact him on Instagram @jordanmurphythai or on Facebook Jordan Murphy Thai or by e-mailing his father alanjmurphy1@googlemail.com.

Those interested in following Jordan into the sport can contact Michael Dicks on Facebook or at fight4fitnessltd@outlook.com.