Lane on the road to fame and glory

Irann Lane, 20, has claimed his first regional mixed martial arts title, the ICO MMA Midlands championship, with a unanimous decision win over John Dewis from Bedworth.

Lane, who works as a builder, trains at Elite Mixed Martial Arts in Oswestry, and coach Rich Cosgrove said: "Irann's ultimate aim is to eventually turn professional and this win could provide an important step on the path towards his goal.

"It was a good fight, but Irann was too strong and he finished the final round in great style."

The bout took place at the Legacy Fightsport event in Leamington Spa and Lane showcased his well-rounded skill set in a dominant performance.

The first round saw both fighters throwing hard leg kicks and left-right combinations.

Dewis set up a leg kick but Lane countered and tied him up in a clinch. From there both fighters showed good takedown defence until the end of the round.

They both came out aggressively for the second with Lane again forcing a clinch and taking Dewis to the ground.

Lane then landed some vicious ground and pound with Dewis defending well but was unable to launch an attack of his own.

The final round saw both fighters come out swinging again but Lane again forced his opponent to the ground where he continued to score points with his skilful groundwork.

Dewis again defended well but Lane again dominated the stanza to wrap up a unanimous decision victory.

Lane thanked his coaches Mick Broster and Cosgrove for all their help in the build up to the fight.

He trained six days a week, which included two four-hour sparring and practice drills as well as five 10k runs a week in preparation under their supervision.

Lane would also like to thank all the fighters at Team Elite for supporting him and helping him get ready for the fight.

For more information about Elite Mixed Martial Arts, log onto http://elite-martial-arts.net, visit their page on facebook or contact Rich Cosgrove on 07970 856002.