PAUL Newby (above), who runs the Burley-in-Wharfedale Karate Club, battled his way to become World Champion in Mexico.

Paul got a taste of the real big time as the fight crazy Mexicans packed into the hall as he battled in front of interational television cameras - but sadly not British ones - to win his title.

After winning bronze in the World Championships two years ago Paul was focussed and determined to get gold this time.

The 25,000 strong Mexican crowd certainly inspired him as he beat off the challenge of opponents from Vietnam, Russia, Turkey and Venezuela to reach the final where he beat his Iranian opponent to be crowned World Champion.

The 27 year-old had spent two weeks with the England squad on the island of St Padre off the coast of Texas as they prepared for the championships.

The training was intense with three sessions a day.

They then moved on to the championships in Monteret, Mexico, where fighters from 80 nations competed.

"When I won the Mexicans flooded the arena floor and I was mobbed. It was unbelievable, I felt like a real sporting star for the day," said Paul.

Paul's exploits in the World Championships have won him a new admirer - film actor Jean Claude Van Damme.

Paul's promoter does some work with the actor and after telling him of Paul's exploits Van Damme said he would like to watch Paul in action this coming weekend in London.

The Silsden-based karate instructor said he was grateful to West Riding Toyota of Silsden and Foam Comforts of Keighley for sponsoring him.

Paul announced this week that he is changing the name of his karate club, based at Burley and Woodhead Primary School, to Wharfedale Warriors.

Anyone interested in joining the club can contact Paul on 07795417004.