WIRRAL’S Joe Ryan made history north of the border when he became the first undisputed Muay Thai middleweight world champion with victory over Thai fighter Beckham in Glasgow.

The 20-year-old’s WBC world title triumph over the experienced 28-year-old made him the first person in the history of the sport to unify the titles of all four Muay Thai governing bodies –  WBC, WMO, ISKA and Rajadamnern.

Just last month, Ryan successfully defended his WMO world title down under, beating 27-year-old Aussie fighter David Pennimpede in Queensland.

The New Brighton fighter told the Globe: “I’m made up to get all four belts but I didn’t think about it at the time.

“I just took the fight as I take every fight – I wanted to win.”

It’s little surprise that Ryan is relaxed about making records. Less than a week after celebrating his 20th birthday back in April, he beat Brazilian 27-year-old Victor Hugo at Rajadamnern Stadium, Thailand, becoming the first Brit to win a major title there since it opened in December 1945.

Dad Karl, also Ryan’s trainer at Two Brothers Muay Thai gym in Birkenhead, said: “Joe has worked for years and given up a lot to get where he is today – undisputed number one in the world. 

“Everyone at the gym is made up for him.”

Asked how he felt as his dad – not just his trainer – Karl added: “I can’t put it into words! Me and his mum have always been his biggest fans and I’ve always said there’s nothing he can’t do, but as his parents we’re still made up when he proves you right!”

Ryan, once labelled “The future of Muay Thai”, began his rise to the top at the age of just six. 

By 13 he was a youth world champion and fighting for Team GB in the annual IFMA Youth World Muay Thai Championships in Bangkok.

Two Brothers Muay Thai gym in Birkenhead runs regular classes for adults and children from the age of five upwards. For more information, visit 2BrothersMuayThai.com or call 07816 972453