A YOUNG kickboxer will be heading out to Portugal to compete in the WKC World Championships.

Nine-year-old Maximus Ward, from Rainhill, will fly out as part of the England squad after qualifying earlier this year.

Max started kickboxing when he was four and has collected several gold championship medals, trophies and belts travelling up and down the country, also competing in Wales, Scotland and Germany.

He qualified to represent team England on March 17, coming in first place in the under10s -35kg points fighting at North Notts Arena, in Worksop. 

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Mum Danielle said Max will be the youngest in the England squad and could be competing against 11-year-olds, with the U10s category based on competitors’ age in January.

She spoke of her pride in his achievements and praised his dedication and effort.

“We’re so very proud of him,” she said.

“He is doing four hours training now every day Monday to Friday, as well as school.

“One thing he does, he puts 100 per cent effort in.

“Max is trained at Senshi Academy by Lorraine Riley, with 30 years experience, who is seven times world champion and fifth degree black belt and Benjamin Clark.

"Ben is two-time world champion and fourth degree black belt, with a wealth of knowledge teaching martial arts.”

Max Ward will represent England Max Ward will represent England (Image: Submitted)

Max also plays rugby at Haresfinch Hawks and football at Prescot Cables but is focusing on his kickboxing training for the coming weeks as he prepares for the worlds.

Max will be travelling to Portugal in late October to compete in the WKC World Championships, with dad Ste travelling out with him.

He is sponsored by Encirc Glass and Datum Site Engineering Services.