YOUNG fighters at a Bury martial arts school were delighted by the recent appearance of a world champion MMA fighter.

Michel ‘Venom’ Page delivered a three hour seminar at Infinity Martial Arts School in an event open to anyone interested in the sport, and took the time to coach pupils and talk about his career.

Page started his MMA career in 2011, and went on to compete in the Super Fight League, Bellator MMA and Ultimate Challenge MMA.

Joe Hallett, chief instructor at Infinity Martial Arts, said: “Michael and I have known each other since I was 13 and I’ve watched him just explode within the sport and he goes to show what you can do when you really go for something.

“Michael is so humble, and has never forgotten his roots, and has always given back to the martial arts community

“I have known Michael for years before he became so successful and we’re so grateful that he came down here to pass on some of his skills and valuable knowledge to the students.

“When I look at him, I’m reminded of why I started doing martial arts in the first place. I was a shy kid at school and was never the most academic but martial arts gave me so much confidence and discipline.

“It was such an honour to have him as he has such a busy schedule these days, and his career is so hectic, it’s great to see that he has not forgotten his roots.”

Lewis Clark, an instructor at Nova Martial Arts Academy in Bury town centre,added: “I grew up watching him and he is a phenomenal fighter and he is such a consummate professional in how he handles himself both in and out the ring.

“Many of the students have only heard me talk about Michael and what he means to me, and I have been making them all watch his old videos, which they can all learn so much from.

“I started doing this at age 18 because of guys like him and over the years, I progressed and eventually represented my country at the world championships.”