Making up for lost time

Canterbury-based Fusion Martial Arts & Fitness reached the gold standard at the Battle of Kent competition in Chatham.

The event, normally held every quarter, has been much missed during the pandemic so anticipation was even higher than usual and the Fusion team did not disappoint.

First up was 12-year-old Charlie Day, competing in light-contact kickboxing. Demonstrating good skill and control, he came away with the club’s first win of the day.

Also taking part in the light-contact kickboxing category - his third bout - was 10-year-old Sami Karim and he fought out a draw.

Eleven-year-old Freddie Burns had a 100% record to protect after 11 straight wins and despite coming under early pressure he turned the tide with a torrent of body shots to secure his 12th win and the club’s second of the event.

Josh Currah agreed to replace a no-show for a second fight before he had his first. In his first boxing bout after only three months’ training, there was no ring rust and Currah, 24, secured victory.

The second bout was trickier and feeling the effects from his first match he dropped his guard in round two and took a standing count due to a knockdown. However he fought back with a flurry of well-timed and wellexecuted combinations to secure the final win for the team.

Fusion head coach Darren Stevens said: “I am immensely proud of the team, not only for the wins but for the courage to step into the ring after many months of reduced training. All their hard work has paid off.”

For more information about Fusion’s classes for ages five and upwards, visit www.fmafreestyle.com.

Freddie Burns, left, celebrates his 12th career win