A BOURNEMOUTH teenager is seeking funding to fulfil his ambition to become one of the best fighters in the world.

Harlem Dillon, 18, has been training in different styles of fighting since the age of five, including kickboxing, Jiu Jitsu Grappling and Mixed Martial Arts fighting.

He now has the opportunity to attend the world-renowned Fight Camp in San Diego, America, run by world champion fighter Dean Lister, but needs funding to support his quest.

The ex-Portchester Sports College pupil now works for Poole-based Scramble MMA, which specialises in martial arts clothing and accessories, and trains six days a week at Ippon Gym and Thaiworks in Bournemouth.

He has also been competing in inter-club and grappling tournaments and, in his debut MMA fight in October, beat his opponent in just 49 seconds.

Harlem said: “When I turned 18 I had this huge impulse of hunger to fight and train all the time.

“In my opinion it isn’t a very rough or violent sport it’s all competition at the end of the day, that’s why I think I enjoy it so much – the idea of going into a cage and the outcome of the fight is just in my hands, no one else’s is amazing for me.”

Harlem is now asking for public support to raise the money towards travelling and accommodation costs for the Fight Camp, which will help him achieve his ultimate goal, to fight in the Ultimate Fighting Championship, and become a world champion.

Anyone who can help should visit harlemdillon.com.