Burnley's Dragons Kickboxing Club secures medal haul at WKO English Open

After two days of intense competition, 10 fighters from Dragons Kickboxing Club secured an impressive sixth place overall out of 89 teams at the tournament.

Competing against some of the best young talent in the country, the team – with fighters ranging in age from just eight to 17 – delivered a string of medal-winning performances.

The club celebrated an exceptional haul of gold, silver and bronze medals: Arabella Taylor, Hannah Shackleton, Angelina Taylor, Tomasz Jaros, Cyprian Kozak, Emilia Lawson, Deegan Dobbie, Ellie Whitehead, Sebastian Savu and Emma Duckworth.

Eight-year-old Arabella Taylor completed an astonishing nine fights over two days and remained undefeated in her age and weight categories. She narrowly missed out on being named the top female competitor of the entire tournament.

Coach Steven Wong made the decision to withdraw her from a bout against a 10-year-old opponent who was 5kg heavier, ensuring she remained focused on the divisions she was entered into.

“At just eight years old, she’s something special,” Steven said. “She was more than willing to take on the older, heavier opponent – but our priority is always our fighters’ safety and long-term development.”

The club extended thanks to assistant coach Danielle for supporting fighters ringside across both days and helping with travel to and from the competition.

Gratitude was also expressed to parents and supporters who cheered the team on throughout the weekend, and organisers, including Jon Green and the WKO team.

Dragons Kickboxing Club is now seeking sponsorship to continue supporting both the club and its individual fighters.