By James Bovington
Leeds enjoys a reputation as a centre of excellence in Thai boxing, or Muay Thai, and attracts fighters from afar to enjoy the high-quality facilities and coaching available.
Teenage boxers Finn Dogruel, from Koblenz in western Germany, and Martin Barta, from Baja in Hungary, have just completed intensive training courses at Bad Company gym in Bramley.
“I’ve learnt so much here,” said Finn, 19. “Everything is of a high standard with coaches who listen and adapt to an individual’s needs.
“I have been made welcome and got to know Leeds. I’d trained in Thailand in the spring and got a stoppage in my first amateur bout.
“My time in Leeds coincided with the city’s Hitman show and although I didn’t win it was a fantastic experience showcasing skills in front of a large audience cheering us on.
“The exhilaration of it all it’s an amazing feeling like no other. I can’t wait to return to Leeds. It’s the best place to continue chasing my dream.”
Kickboxer Martin is also 19, and has developed Thai boxing skills at Bad Company.
“This is my second time in Leeds,” he added “I learn more in a month here than a year elsewhere. I’ve been involved in combat sports for five years and won my first professional bout last February at 63kg. I’ve learnt to use my elbows in Muay Thai, and I’d love to return to Leeds and be on a major show.”
Finn and Martin both expressed admiration for Bad Company’s Fergus Smith, also 19, and who has recently become the number one European Thai boxer at his 54kg weight with two victories in Thailand in the last three months.
“He’s achieving what everyone aims for,” stated Martin.
Finn stayed at an Air BNB near the gym and Martin, who “loves exploring big cities,” travelled daily by bus from his temporary home in Meanwood. Both praised the “absolutely fantastic hospitality from great people”.
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