HULL'S Sam Wilkinson has set his sights high in mixed martial arts after claiming the semi-professional bantamweight British title in Sunderland.

The 18-year-old, who is known as The Mule, took only 54 seconds of the second round to defeat Craig Derbyshire, who was making his second defence of his title.

And with time still firmly on his side, the youngster, who fights out of MDMA Mixed Martial Arts & Fitness Centre, in Scarborough Street in Hull, has already mapped out his future in the sport.

He said: "I'd like to think this was just the start, really.

"I aim to establish myself and defend the title a few times to get myself known over the next couple of years.

"Then at around 20 I'd like to become professional as there is scope to have a future in the sport."

Wilkinson, of Priory Road, established himself in his weight division and then fought an eliminator for the right to face Doncaster fighter Derbyshire.

And once the big moment arrived, Wilkinson didn't disappoint. Evading some of Derbyshire's punches in the first round, he answered with some counter-strikes before taking charge of the bout.

In the second round the superior wrestling of Wilkinson came to the fore and he eventually finished the contest after less than a minute with an armbar securing the title.

Wilkinson added: "Craig is my main rival and I knew it would be tough against him but I was confident heading into the fight.

"It was great to win and I hope I can go on from here."

Wilkinson started in the sport four years ago and also practices kick boxing, boxing and jiu jitsu, but admits he's most impressive at mixed martial arts.

"It's the one I'm best at although I like the others," he said.

"Doing all those sports makes you quick and fit and helps you think on your feet when you're in the ring.

"It was great having support from the MDMA gym up in Sunderland, too.

"I started out at that gym and then went away for a while to another gym but came back and they've helped me all the way to the title."

Wilkinson now takes a break from the action before starring in his next fight, in his hometown on March 24.

He added: "It's at the Bonus Arena so it will be special for me fighting in Hull.

"I just hope that I can give a good account of myself at that venue and I'll be getting in the best possible shape.

"It's not a title fight but it will help to get my name out there."

THE Mixed Martial Arts and Fitness Centre can be contacted by ringing 07813 163617 or at www.mdma.co.uk