WIRRAL Thai boxer Joe Ryan has got the world at his feet after becoming the youngest ever WBC European Champion at just 18.
The teenager from Wallasey, who went into the fight ranked 15th in the world, is set to move into the top 10 following his victory over experienced Madrid fighter Jose Hita at the University of Bolton Stadium.
Joe said: “It’s a dream come true. I’ve dreamed of this moment since I started training with my dad in his gym!
“It’s not just a victory for me, though, it’s for everybody involved. My dad, my absolute diamond of a mum, who cooked all my meals during this fight camp, my little brother Karl, who’s a brilliant fighter himself, and every other member of the Two Brothers gym.”
The European title is Joe’s second since turning professional, and his third title in seven months. He knocked out former European champ Toni Romero in December before beating Cyprus and Russia in the IFMA European Championships in February.
The teenager, who has been fighting since the age of six under the expert eye of dad Karl snr, has now chalked up 69 wins.
Dad Karl, who predicted back in January that Joe would one day become WBC World Champion, said: “I’m running out of new ways to describe how good he is!
“He’s my son so I’m going to be proud of him whatever happens and however he does, but I wasn’t joking when I said he would be world champion one day and I believe it more than ever now.
“It’s not just about ability with Joe – it’s about attitude. He works hard, never stops wanting to improve and doesn’t fear anyone.”
Ryan’s next fight is against Italian and WAKO European champion Jacopo “The Slicer” Tarantino, who has an enviable win rate of 67 in 79 fights.
Ryan snr added: “Tarantino will be looking to make a statement, I imagine but so will Joe.
“Joe will respect him but will be just as determined to keep his endless win streak going and, once he’s in that ring, he can beat anybody."
Joe Ryan takes on Jacopo Tarantino at the Bolton Stadium on August 6 as part of the MTGP Takeover. For tickets and more information, visit muaythaigp.com/events/mtgp-bolton-06-08-22/
Joe Ryan’s full fight against Jose Hita is available to watch on YouTube at https://youtu.be/pitCBvJ9K5o
Two Brothers Muay Thai gym in Birkenhead, where Ryan trains, runs regular classes for adults and children from the age of five upwards. For more information, visit 2BrothersMuayThai.com or call 07816 972453
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