A 13-year-old Muay Thai champion who trains in Newton Abbot has been selected to represent Team GB at the World Championships in Thailand next year — and has launched a fundraiser to help make the trip possible.

Oaklee Harris, from Torquay, has already amassed an impressive collection of titles, including the WKO World Championship, WKO British Championship and WMF European Championship.

He also holds the WMSA championship title and recently added another British title to his achievements after competing in Scotland.

Oaklee fights for KMT Muay Thai in Plymouth, travelling daily from Torquay to Britain's ocean city to train, but the young fighter also trains at SJC Fight Academy in Newton Abbot, headed up by Taylor Sullivan and Les Joint.

Muay Thai, a combat sport originating in Thailand, has become much more than a hobby for the teenager.

Oaklee, who has autism and ADHD, says training has helped him channel his energy positively while developing discipline and respect.

‘It has become my passion’, Oaklee said.

‘I eat, sleep and train Muay Thai. Through Muay Thai, I have learned respect and discipline’.

Oaklee began competing last year and has since enjoyed success at events across the country and overseas.

Earlier this year, he won an international championship in Cyprus, adding to his growing list of achievements.

His dedication was demonstrated at a competition in Scotland on September 5 at Rivals Gym, when he was offered the chance to fight for a British title at just two days’ notice after another competitor withdrew.

Despite the short notice, Oaklee rose to the challenge and won.

Now, he is preparing for the biggest opportunity of his young career.

Team GB will compete at the 22nd WMF World Amateur, Pro-Am and Pro Muaythai Championships in Bangkok, Thailand, from March 10 to 21, 2027.

To help cover the costs of travelling to Thailand and competing on the international stage, Oaklee has launched a fundraiser, appealing for support to help turn his dream of representing his country into reality.

Away from competition, Oaklee is already helping others take their first steps in the sport.

Throughout the summer holidays, he volunteered at home-education sessions at Next Gen Football Gym in Totnes, sharing his skills with other children.

He plans to continue volunteering each week.

His father, Lee Harris, said he was incredibly proud of his son's achievements and commitment.

‘He trains so hard, six days a week. He's got autism and ADHD, so he really concentrates on his passion’, he said.

Lee added that Oaklee had always wanted to give something back to younger people and help them with their own journeys.

With an impressive collection of titles behind him, Oaklee now hopes to make his mark on the world stage — and inspire other young athletes to follow their dreams.