Kickboxer Kerry is eighth wonder of the world

The kickboxer, who teaches at Falcon Fight Academy in Dinnington, made the long trip to Stanley, County Durham to fight for the WFKKO K1 rules world title.

And despite suffering a fight-ending cut in the fourth round, her impressive performance against Italy’s Annalisa Bucci was enough to give Norbury the belt.

With four months of specific training for Bucci, a 50-fight veteran, under her belt, Norbury entered a sold out arena roared on by over 50 friends and supporters who travelled from Dinnington to give their backing.

Norbury took the initiative early on in the bout, landing some heavy kicks and punches and putting Bucci on the back foot, winning the first round comfortably.

The Italian offered a little more in round two, but was met with counter punching and combinations.

A knockdown in the third stanza courtesy of a heavy Norbury shot had Bucci hanging on and trying to avoid more punishment.

Round four saw Norbury landing effective knees before a clash of heads resulted in a deep cut on the top of the Anston women’s head, forcing a stoppage.

The fight went to the scorecards and the judges decided unanimously in favour of Norbury, who took every round.

A delighted world champion said after the fight: “I knew she would take a lot of punishment, as she is a tough fighter.”

“I thought it was over when I hit her with a massive right hand which rattled my own bicep.”

“It was a hard fight, but I worked hard to show the fans what I had.”

Norbury, who celebrated with her supporters and posed for photographs with fans after the bout, dedicated the win to Shirley Creasey, a Falcon Fight Academy member who passed away recently.

It is expected that the world champion will look to take a Muay Thai fight next.

Her team-mate Wesley Fagan was also in action on Saturday, facing another Italian opponent in a seven round fight that he won, making it a great night for Falcon Fight Academy head coach Cris Janson Piers.