A YOUNG martial arts star is set to represent his country on the international stage.
Kai ‘Kaizen’ Ambler, a 15-year-old mixed martial arts prodigy, has been selected to represent Team England in February’s IMMAF European Championships.
The ambitious Grimethorpe youngster dedicates three hours a day, six days a week to the discipline, training at ATV, in Leeds.
Kai practices a wide range of martial arts, including MMA, kickboxing, muay Thai, Brazilian jiu jitsu and more.
With a series of accolades to his name, Kai has previously placed first in the Elite BJJ World Championships in July –and also took home gold in the ADCC UK National Championship.
He boasts a 2-0 record in MMA and an 18-10 record in Brazilian jiu jitsu.
In September, a stroke of bad luck meant that Kai’s future was uncertain after suffering a fractured ankle and ligament damage.
Despite his injuries, as a proud ‘Yorkshire lad’ Kai is more determined than ever to represent Barnsley on an international stage.
Depending on the outcome of his upcoming competition, Kai’s career could skyrocket to the Abu Dhabi World Championships next summer.
Kai has tested his mettle through training with men who are taller, stronger and heavier than him – proving he is in a different league to other competitors.
To help fund his bright future, the teenager is seeking sponsorship and is calling on local businesses to help him achieve his dream.
He said: “This is the biggest stage for any youth amateur MMA worldwide.
“My goal is to represent my country, test my skills against the best in the world and build a strong foundation to carry me forward turning into an adult.”
Sponsors will help to cover personal training costs, competition entry fees and travel expenses.
In return, sponsors will receive their logo on Kai’s fight wear, social media shout outs and a rare chance for exposure at national and international events.