Gillen, who was drawn to the sport after watching his mentor, former world champ Billy Murray in action, was crowned King of Malta in an invitational tournament last month, adding the unique title to the Irish and Celtic Nations belts he takes care of at his Co Armagh home.

The much-travelled father of two, who now teaches classes on the Falls Road and in Craigavon, said: "I was working hard in training at Prokick not entirely aware of what was coming my way next.

"Then the show in Malta came up and I was invited for a heavyweight bout. I couldn't wait for the chance to see Malta as well as get back into the ring.

"It was a great occasion and winning out there gave me a renewed belief in my ability.

"Since coming home I have been consistent in my training and I hope the next opportunity is not too far away."

David Briwa and Coach Toussaint Andarelli James has secured an outing on the December 6th Bill 'The Next Generation against Corsican giant David Briwa. Stablemate Stuart Jess will headline it in a fourth world title bid. Alongside team mate Mark Bird who will fight for European glory against Scotlands Mikey Shields in a K1 style bout.

Gillen, a veteran of 22 fights, defeated Darren Borg in Malta before returning to his coaching schedules.

He is now a recognised kicboxing tutor and gets as much thrill out of teaching as he does winning. "I never thought the day I saw Billy Murray fight that I would one day end up teaching kickboxing.

"It's a great sport for many reasons and I get great satisfaction from seeing new students progress."