A CHAMPION mixed martial arts fighter is gearing up for his first professional fight in over a year and being revved on by a local car sales business.

Reece McEwan hasn't stepped into the ring since before lockdown, however is making preparations to get back to what he loves best in the middle of June.

The 26-year-old from Greenock has been backed by owner of Clyde Auto Sales, Blair Fisher, who has been instrumental in supporting him not only with monetary costs, but offering personal support too.

Reece, who has won multiple championships and became the number one ranked bantamweight in the UK and Ireland, told the Tele: "I have sponsors across Scotland who help me with things like covering costs for fight preparations such as personal training sessions, nutrition, gym costs and travelling costs.

"Blair has been there for me in more ways than one - it's a local business supporting a local guy and we're now very good friends as a result.

"He was a year above me in school so we always knew of each other, but I've been really grateful for all the support he's offered me.

"Even during the lockdown he was dropping me a message to find out how he could help me, just checking in or giving me words of encouragement.

"His support and the support from my sponsors means so much."

Reece won his professional debut by first round submission and can't wait for the buzz of having an audience watch him again.

He said: "I only went professional in February 2020, so it's been strange to have only fought once before we went into a lockdown.

"I love what I do and can't wait to get back to it, there's no greater feeling than people being there to cheer you on and support you.

"I've started training for the June fight and I'm so looking forward to getting back to it."

Blair, who owns the car showroom at Inverkip Road, says he is delighted to support a local talent like Reece.

He said: "It's people like Reece who make us proud to be from Inverclyde, he'll take over the world soon.

"I'm so glad to be supporting him in his professional venture and it's really been a sponsorship turned friendship - it's more than just helping out financially.

"We're delighted to have such a good relationship and looking forward to seeing what he does next."

For more information about Reece or to find out about sponsorship opportunities, visit reecemcewan.com