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Romanian kickboxer prepares for world title fight

TOM LARSEN-WRIGHT/BBC Amansio Paraschiv looks directly at the camera as he leans on the ropes at the side of a boxing ringTOM LARSEN-WRIGHT/BBC
Amansio "The Viking" Paraschiv will fight for the Super Welterweight KGP World Title in October

A European champion kickboxer from Romania has been training for a world title fight in Essex.

Amansio "The Viking" Paraschiv has been preparing over the past few months at Essex Kickboxing Academy in South Ockendon to fight for the Super Welterweight KGP World Title.

The 32-year-old fighter will take on the British-Latvian, Mareks Pelcis, in October in London.

Steve Kerridge, the gym's owner and head coach, said it has seen more than 100 champions walk through its doors over the years.

TOM LARSEN-WRIGHT/BBC Steve Kerridge poses next to a punching bag with his fist raised. He is wearing a yellow T-shirt and looking directly at the camera. TOM LARSEN-WRIGHT/BBC
Steve Kerridge says some people practice martial arts to learn self-defence or build up their confidence

Mr Kerridge said that some people practice martial arts to learn self-defence or build up their confidence, while others want to compete. He added: "Overall it's good for health and fitness, it ticks so many boxes."

Kickboxer Lilie Copperthwaite, who also trains at Essex Kickboxing Academy, won her first professional fight in March to claim the KGP British Title.

Mr Kerridge, looking ahead to Paraschiv's fight, said: "I think I get more nervous than the fighter." Yet but both men said they were confident of a win.

After meeting earlier this year, the pair have formed a strong connection and the gym's head coach will be in Paraschiv's corner for the upcoming bout.

LAUREN CARTER/BBC A black and white sign reads "Essex Kickboxing & Muay Thai Academy, The Home of Champions"LAUREN CARTER/BBC
Essex Kickboxing Academy was formerly known as Aveley Kickboxing Club

Paraschiv said he has been training two times a day, either in Thurrock or at another gym in London, and he has tried to inspire the younger fighters he has met in England.

He added he was sure that many fellow Romanians would come to the event at Crystal Palace National Sports Centre to support him on 19 October.

Paraschiv, who has also holds an undefeated professional boxing record, said he was "excited" to be making his kickboxing debut in the United Kingdom.

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