A WEE COUNTY MMA fighter has clinched a professional British title, thought to be a first from the area.

Dollar man Calum Murrie, who made his pro debut last September after a very successful amateur career, and successfully contested the Made4TheCage British Featherweight title.

Calum, 30, was up against experienced title holder Luke Ord in his home town of Sunderland last month in what was scheduled to be a highly competitive three rounds.

The local fighter, who began kickboxing at the Scottish Martial Arts Centre in Tullibody nearly a decade ago, opened with a high-kick, letting his opponent know just how dangerous he is while the bout was on their feet.

Wanting no part of Calum's striking skills, the champion was keen to get close and attempted to push Calum up against the cage and take him to the ground.

However, Calum denied the attempts with great defence and was able to establish a dominant position towards the end of the first round to land some quick strikes to finish the first five minutes strong.

The second round was much the same, the local fighter was in great control from the opening bell.

In the third and final round, both competitors have it all with several back and forth exchanges in what was the closest period of the whole fight.

At the end, both embraced and showed signs of respect as they awaited the judges decision – Calum was the winner on all three judges' scorecards to bring his professional record to 3-0.

Following the fight, Calum said: “Well that was a tough scrap last night, over the moon to be the new Made4TheCage British champion.

“Respect to my opponent Luke Ord he's a tough lad and it was a pleasure to fight him. I just want to say thanks all my team at Higher Level MMA, it's always a team effort where we win together and lose together.

“The coach James Doolan for all he does for us behind closed doors every night in the gym. My corner team Stevie McIntosh and Craig McIntosh - they were awesome last night getting my mind right mentally before the fight with all their positive comments and instruction throughout the contest it makes a big difference.

“My fiancé Stacey McNabney who puts up with me out the house most nights training and has to miss out on stuff as well with the sacrifices that are made to prepare for fights.

“My mum for all her help over the years and a huge thanks to the guys that made the journey down to support me.

“I really appreciate it, so glad I got the win for you coming all the way down here. Also to everyone that wished me luck through messages and social media - the support is unreal.”

Clinching the title is great news for Calum – previous champions have often moved onto the big leagues of the UFC.