Black Country wrestler, 19, crowned UK champion

A 19-year-old wrestler from the Black Country has realised his dreams by becoming the UK champion for the world's leading sports entertainment company.

Tyler Bate, of Netherton, was crowned the WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) UK Champion at the Empress Ballroom, Blackpool.

A star of Wolverhampton-based promotion Fight Club: Pro, he was presented with the new belt by wrestling legend Triple H and Codsall-born William Regal live on the WWE Network – which has almost two million subscribers.

Tyler beat four competitors over the two-day tournament which culminated on Sunday, including fellow Fight Club Pro grappler Pete Dunne, 23, from Chelmsley Wood.

The champion, who made his in-ring debut at 15, was a student at Ormiston Forge Academy.

The school's principal, Andrew Burns said: "We are all incredibly proud of Tyler's achievement.

"He's shown that age and where you come from isn't a barrier to success. He'll inspire Forge students and he'll inspire young people all over the world, wherever he goes.

"He's worked hard and is a leading light for bright young talent from this area."