A ROSYTH youngster who took up kickboxing to beat the bullies is now setting his sights on fighting his way to global glory.

Aaron Humphries, of Peasehill Brae, is determined to kick his way to the top of the world despite competing in the sport for only just over a year.

The talented 12-year-old, who is in S1 at Dunfermline High School, picked up two silver medals at the WKA (World Kickboxing and Karate Association) Scotland Scottish Championships at Ravenscraig, Motherwell.

Now Aaron, who also takes part in Brazilian jujitsu and gymnastics, is planning to conquer the world after rediscovering his self-esteem and confidence after taking up kickboxing for self-defence in August 2014.

Mum Kerry launched a just giving appeal to try and help Aaron achieve his goal, with three separate events on the kickboxing calendar in Athens, Spain and Florida taking place this year.

Aaron, whose medals came in the points and light continuous disciplines in the under-35kg category, said: “I was getting bulled and I only wanted to do it for self-defence. Then I had the chance to go to a competition and I said ok. I was surprised because, at my first competition, I never thought I would anything but I won two medals.

“I went to the worlds in Dublin last year and it was exciting knowing I was going. I was nervous when I got there because it was my first, but I definitely want to win a world championship this year.”

UFC fan Aaron, who trains with Goliath Kickboxing and MMA in Dundee, added: “Kickboxing boosts my confidence and fitness but I never expected I would win at competitions or go to worlds. I’ m going for my black belt at the end of March but I watch the UFC. When I get older want to fight in the UFC but I don’t think my mum wants me to!

Proud Kerry commented: “It has been great for his self esteem, self defence and discipline. Aaron’s always been sporty and fit and he tried football, but it wasn’t his thing. He qualified for the worlds last year and all the family went with him. When we came back, his brother wanted to take it up too!

“There’s a good kickboxing community; the Team Scotland coaches like David McAlpine, Malcolm Evans, Paul Kean and Stephen Harris, who’s Aaron’s main coach, and Jayne Clouston have been great with him. We’re grateful for their support.

“He fought at the Watford Open Nationals, which is an international competition, and got to the quarter-finals, and fought at the British Championships last year.

“There’s no funding available because there’s no recognised body with sportscotland, so we have to do it ourselves.”

The ISKA Amateur Members Association World Championships take place in Athens in late May, with other world events taking place in Spain and Florida in October and November.

If you’d like to donate to Aaron’s fund, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/Aaron-iska-worlds.