Gzim Nikaj

Gzim Nikaj was crowned BIKMA British light-heavyweight champion after a closely fought bout at the top of the bill at Chestnut Sports Centre’s Kickboxing event.

Nikaj, who trains at the Mantis Kickboxing Club in Forest Gate, took on Gurumuay’s fighter Michael Dumbuya.

The five-round bout began at an exciting pace, as both fighters landed telling blows and good kicks.

The emphasis geared more towards handwork, as 21-year-old Nikaj landed his trademark accurate body punches and practiced overhand right combination, before being declared the winner.

He said: “I prepared very hard for this as I knew he would be a tough opponent.

“I couldn’t have wished for a better 21st birthday present.”

The event, organised by the Scorpion Kickboxing Association, included another three fighters from the Mantis Club.

Sebastian Krawczyk produced a fine performance to edge out a points victory over the more mature Ross Brown from the Ninja Club.

Nathan Lewis dominated his opponent with his jab, before outscoring Tom Stevens from the Scorpion Club.

But Jay Pjetry dropped a close points decision to Gurumuay’s Krystian Ozog.

Mantis joint-coach Olu Oyenigba said: “All the fighters did well on the night, but Gzim’s win has created a buzz amongst some of the other youngsters at the gym, which is an inspiring thing.”