How bullying led Britain's Campbell to the UFC

Kurtis Campbell's journey from a bullied seven-year-old in Liverpool to a potential UFC champion began with his parents' intervention. Concerned by their son's struggle with bullies, Jay and Michelle enrolled him in Muay Thai classes. This marked the start of a lifelong passion for combat sports. Campbell told BBC Sport, "I've never looked back since."

His parents' influence and support proved crucial, enabling him to chase his dream of becoming a UFC champion. Seventeen years later, he prepares for his second fight against Trevor Peek at UFC Paris. Campbell, now 24, is determined, stating, "I'm not going to stop until my mum and dad are on a beach somewhere, sipping cocktails."

Initially, Campbell's gym time was meant to teach self-defense before secondary school. However, he quickly fell in love with the sport and began competing in amateur competitions, becoming obsessed with it. At 15, he won his first international Muay Thai title, realizing the potential of combat sports beyond just a pastime. His unwavering commitment to the sport, even missing school to attend coaching seminars, paid off.

After completing his GCSEs early, Campbell enrolled in a college course that combined sport studies with football. Despite his disinterest in school, he made friends and balanced his academic pursuits with his passion for fighting. His first UFC loss occurred nearly seven and a half years after his debut, marking his first defeat in nearly a decade.

Despite this setback, Campbell remains proud of his achievements and determined to build his legacy further.