A Wolverhampton law graduate is now a rising star of the British ‘cage fighting’ scene.

Eugene Fadiora, aged 23, who grew up in The Scotlands and Low Hill, is carving out a reputation as one of the country’s most explosive mixed martial artists, and he is well on the way to achieving his ultimate aim of becoming the city’s first-ever fighter to compete for the sports flagship company, Ultimate Fighting Championship.

Eugene, who holds a 2:1 degree from Wolverhampton University, has compiled a record of 10 wins and just one loss in 11 fights so far, including five knockouts and four submissions.

The kick boxing and karate expert, who works as a health care support worker with mentally-ill adults in Stafford, is now on the verge of a BAMMA (British Association of Mixed Martial Arts) British title shot against undefeated Welshman Jack Marshman.

Eugene began studying law at the age of 16 at Our Lady and St Chad’s School but even then he knew his heart lay outside the courtroom.

“It is good to have the degree because it gives me something to fall back on, and it also shows I have got commitment and I can retain information,” he said. “But I decided when I was a teenager that I wanted to get paid for something I loved doing.”

He had his first semi-pro fight at 17 and compiled a 10-0 record before bursting on to the professional circuit in March 2008, with a first round knockout of Neil Huntley.

Even during his university days though, few students were aware of his fighting prowess and it is still something the modest athlete keeps to himself unless asked.

Eugene has already attracted a host of sponsors to help him meet the costs of training.