A 22-year-old Lurgan man has claimed three mixed martial arts championship belts after steering away from a troubled path.

Ricardo De Araujo, originally from East Timor and resident in County Armagh since 2012, acknowledged making poor decisions before committing to the sport.

He began training at New Era in Craigavon before moving to Team Torres in Newry, where he now trains six days a week. He has compiled an 8-3 record and secured two titles at the Canal Court Hotel in Newry, with a third won in Belfast this past weekend.

His step-mother, Louise, said he decided to change his lifestyle and pursue MMA, winning a boxing title before transitioning to mixed martial arts.

De Araujo hopes to turn professional after a few more bouts and is seeking sponsorship to cover costs such as medical examinations, travel and sports massages. He intends to travel to Thailand for a training camp in December.

He also aims to encourage other young people by demonstrating that past mistakes need not determine the future. He is assisting with training for his 14-year-old brother, Rafael.