What makes this all the more remarkable is that the Saintfield star only switched sports three years ago.

“Sometimes I have to pinch myself,” said Young. “It has happened at such breakneck speed. It feels like only yesterday I was turning out for the Blues. Now, I could be the best in the world! I feel like I’m walking in dreamland.”

Young’s coach Billy Murray said it was all down to two simple ingredients – talent and tenacity. “I encouraged Ian to take kickboxing seriously as I saw the raw talent he had,” said Murray, himself a four time world champion. “But raw talent is nothing without work. And boy, does Ian work! He applies himself like no fighter I’ve ever seen. If he could, he’d be in the gym before everyone and leave after everyone.

And that’s after his early morning runs which he really seems to enjoy! I’ve had to put him on a strict routine so he doesn’t burn out. He just wants to get better and better all the time.”

Murray added: “Moriconi is a tough, tough opponent. If Ian is to take the world title he’ll have to be on the form of his life. I know he has it within him to dominate and his stamina is incredible. He needs to make his big blows count. Then we can count another world champion in the gym.”

Young joins a Waterfront Hall bill that also includes local hero Gary Hamilton. The evergreen Belfast man is attempting to add the WKN lightweight belt to the world featherweight crown he already holds. There are even rumours that this could be Hamilton’s final run before he hangs up his kickboxing boots for good.

The KICKmas 2008 event is a festive feast of fists and fun which is supported by the Belfast City Council's support for sport programme and sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional, will also see a host of other world and European titles up for grabs. Tickets are still available for the biggest kickboxing show of the year. Tickets are still available online at www.Waterfront.co.uk or by calling 028 90 33 44 55 or call into the Prokick Gym