THE founder of an organisation helping those affected by cancer is putting his body on the line in a charity cage fighting match.

Mark Solan of Solan Connor Fawcett Family Cancer Trust, in Spennymoor, will go head to head with mixed martial arts legend Robert ‘Buzz’ Berry in a Made4TheCage match.

Mr Solan, who was named ITV Tyne Tees Fundraiser of the Year in 2017, will take on the former champion despite an eight stone disadvantage.

He said: “There’s never been a fight like this round here and it will probably be the biggest fight the town will ever see.

“I’ve never had a mixed martial arts fight in my life but now I’m fighting an ex-MMA champion, it’s going to be like David verses Goliath.

“It’s pretty brutal but it’s about raising money and awareness. We’re going to invite families we’ve supported and make a big night out of it.”

Mr Solan hopes the fight will raise funds and awareness needed to help the charity continue to support families and individuals in County Durham and Darlington affected by cancer.

He set up the Solan Connor Fawcett Family Cancer Trust after taking part in a white-collar boxing event in 2015, raising money for Cancer Research UK in memory of his mother and grandmother.

In 2016, the organisation founded its own boutique and in 2017 it became a registered charity, and it continues to grow.

The KO Cancer show is supporting the cause and will also see a special charity match featuring Curt Warburton, an ex-UFC veteran.

Dale Percival, matchmaker and founder of Made4TheCage, said: “Cancer is a cause that is close to us all but especially the North-East MMA community.

“We felt it was only right that for our first charity bouts, Mark’s charity should be the beneficiary.

"He’s been a big part of the M4TC family for years now and it’s our honour to host this project.

“The card is taking shape really nicely so far and looks to be one our most stacked ever, with two title fights already and another two in the pipeline, there will be something for everyone.”

The event will take place at Rainton Meadows Arena on November 24.

Mr Solan also has an upcoming charity skydive planned. He will follow in the footsteps of the Team Solan skydivers.

Among the jumpers to have raised money for the Solan Connor Fawcett Family Cancer Trust include carer Chelsea Whitworth. She managed to raise over £200 worth of pledges on the first day of fundraising.

Anyone interested in buying a Made4TheCage ticket can call 07972 612384.