A Peterborough man has been crowned a world champion at the World Kickboxing Karate Union (WKU) Championships.

Matt Johnson, head coach of Oubaitori Karate Club, clinched gold in the 18-34 year olds -90kg division, defeating a Greek fighter 4-0 in the final.

The championships, held in Rhodes, Greece, in late October, saw participation from over 30 countries, including strong teams from the US, Germany, and the UK.

Peterborough man wins gold at World Kickboxing Karate Union Championships Peterborough man wins gold at World Kickboxing Karate Union Championships (Image: Submitted) Mr Johnson also won silver in the -85kg division and placed seventh in the Kata categories.

His victory ensures his automatic selection for the 2025 World Championships in Trier, Germany.

Mr Johnson, who has been teaching karate since May 2021, led the WKU England Coaching Team for Kumite, helping train several world champions.

Peterborough man wins gold at World Kickboxing Karate Championships Peterborough man wins gold at World Kickboxing Karate Championships (Image: Submitted) His club, which celebrated its first anniversary on November 1, is a non-profit organisation offering training to students from all backgrounds, in partnership with Nene Park Trust.

Mr Johnson's championship journey was supported by local businesses BGL Group, Airport Arrivals Peterborough, and his employer, EvaluAgent.

The club trains at various locations in Werrington and Orton.