A NORTH-EAST man has defied the odds to become a champion in one of the world's toughest sports.

Frederick Forrest took up Thai boxing two years ago and only had his sixth fight at the weekend.

That was against European champion David DeVille, from Belgium, who had 65 bouts to his credit.

But Frederick, of Gainford, caused a major upset when he was awarded the title after a hard-fought points victory in Scotland.

His achievement has been made even more amazing by the fact that he was only asked to fight at the last minute, after the original contender pulled out.

The 28-year-old, who trains at the Darlington Boxing and Martial Arts Academy, in Albert Hill, is now hoping to go to fight in Thailand, where the sport, which allows competitors to use their elbows and knees, is very popular.

"I didn't expect to do so well, but I am delighted, and the next step is to fight in Thailand," he said.