NEWCASTLE'S Michael Lloyd has defied the odds to win a Thai boxing British title belt.

The 17-year-old won the crown after beating Ror on the Love 2 Fight show in the city's Walker Dome.

Delighted Lloyd said: "I’ve benefited enormously from Thai boxing, or Muay Thai. I started training as a shy chubby kid of eleven who hardly socialised and was easily picked on. I’ve gained a lot of confidence and I’m able to stand my ground with anyone. 

"I have dyslexia and dyspraxia, but the sport has helped improve my balance and coordination. In 2022 I was diagnosed with spina bifida occulta and faced not being able to continue fighting but my team at Northern Kings gym under coach Craig Jose supported me. Fortunately, I got the OK to continue. All fighters know that you quickly fall in love with boxing.  We’re dedicated, obsessed even."

College student Lloyd lives with his parents and two sisters but spends most of his time at Northern Kings.

He said: "I love helping in the kids’ class seeing them improve physically and mentally. I also run personal training sessions and I’ve recently completed my level one coaching with Muay Thai GB.

"Our gym is one big community and I’ve got to meet some great people who have the same mindset to improve as fighters. I’d recommend it to anyone wanting to start. Don’t let problems hold you back. Thai boxing will make you a better person. I’m the proof."

Lloyd now wants to become a professional Thai Boxer, saying: "This has always been my dream, my ambition." 

His mum Donna said: "The whole family is very proud of Mikey. He’s a funny caring lad.  We were overwhelmed watching him win his recent fight after seeing his commitment to training. It’s a great achievement."

Lloyd thanked  Kai Leighton from The Mental Shift and Michael Gilroy from EVOL promotions, who organised the recent show.

He said: "I appreciated their consistent support during my darkest times and they helped me to stay on my feet and keep me in training and looking after my health.

"They do amazing things for men’s mental health through workshops in schools and elsewhere. I’m also sponsored by Mark Galvin Contracts and Ring Side diner who’ve funded my training, fight gear and coaching courses."

For more information about Northern Kings Gym, call 0191 273 8955 or e-mail info@northernkings.co.uk. 

Other companies interested in helping Michael become a professional fighter should contact him on Instagram @michael.nkmt.06, Facebook Michael Lloyd or e-mail michaellloyd2006@aol.com.