The fighting McLachlans
Muay Thai fighters Keith and Corey McLachlan have given new meaning to father and son bonding.
The duo, from Croftfoot, were in Stepps on June 20 as Keith, 36, confirmed his status as WBC world champion after Corey, 13, had claimed the CCC European title.
Corey defeated France’s Chai Rozen on points, in an intense battle in which neither boy was willing to give an inch.
Keith said:“That was his second head-contact fight and he came out with no injuries so it was very pleasing.”
The youngster, now number one at 38kg level, is considered to be one of the sport’s brightest prospects and having his experienced father at ringside has proved invaluable.
Keith explained:“It definitely helps him. He was a bit nervous before the start because it was such a big deal.”
In the night’s main event, Keith was matched against two-time world champion Yannis Belacel, of France, and produced a devastating performance to KO his opponent in the second round.
Keith reflected:“It was certainly easier than I was expecting and I came out with no injuries.”
With his son winning the European title earlier, Keith’s victory rounded off a memorable night.
He said:“That was tremendous; very, very special.”
Both fighters train at Maryhill’s Griphouse gym and, the weekend after, Keith took a group to the WTKA title show in Manchester, where they tasted even more success.
Lewis Munro got back to winning ways, while Corey immediately added to his European title by becoming WTKA British champion and confirming his position as UK number one.
Sisters Alisha and Taylor Rae, also trained by Keith, determined not to be outdone by each other, both claimed the WTKA British title in their respective categories.
And it will not be long before Keith himself is back in the ring:“I‘m fighting in Dublin in a couple of weeks against a Spanish guy. Corey’s next fight will probably be at the end of August. We plan to give him a break as he’s had a busy year.”