By James Bovington
Until now kickboxer Callan Burke was typical of a generation of young people who’ve enjoyed combat sports training and competing on a semi-professional basis without having the ambition to do so either full-time or professionally.
Since he’s been training at Team Fu Martial Arts in Burley, the 29-year-old from Swarcliffe views things somewhat differently.
“I turned 29 this month,” said Callan, “and I know I’m good at combat sports. I’ve just won my kickboxing bout on Scott McHugh’s show at Barnsley Metrodome. The atmosphere was amazing and it made me realise that my ambition is to do whatever’s necessary to get on as many major shows as I can and build a solid fanbase throughout the city.”
Callan works for a glass installation company. “In recent years I’ve mainly been on Scott’s shows. He arranges quality match ups that give Leeds fighters the chance to showcase their skills.
“For various reasons I’d been out for nine months so was glad to get back in the ring and chuffed to get the win by a vicious but crowd-pleasing switch kick to the liver. Last year I got the McHugh’s promotions knockout of the year following my win on Scott’s September show with a brutal head kick. It’s dangerous and obviously violent but satisfying as both athletes want an all-action bout allowing us to demonstrate how skilful and courageous we are.
“For me, Team Fu martial arts is the best place to train and it’s well worth crossing the city. It’s a friendly place and I’m there up to four times a week.
“The coaching at Team Fu is helping me achieve my potential. I started combat sports training in 2021 as lockdown ended. Everyone felt restless and I decided to do something about it. I won two MMA bouts but lost a Thai boxing fight early on. I moved over to K1 kickboxing and I’m now undefeated in eight bouts. My ambition now to get as far as I can as a fighter.”
Mr Chun has taught Callan for three years. “He’s a regular student who also has personal 1-1 training sessions. Callan has the potential to become a top-class kickboxer. The sky’s the limit. At Team Fu we’ve produced several champions since opening in 2014. Everyone is welcome to join us as we provide the appropriate level of coaching required for the hundred or so currently coaching.”
To offer Callan sponsorship e-mail callan.j.burke@hotmail.com or via Instagram @callan_burkek1. For information about training at Team Fu, it’s teamfuofficial@hotmail.com or 07507 111111 or Instagram @teamfuofficial. The gym is located on Burley Hill LS4 2PU.
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