"Having been through what I’ve been through I never want to not enjoy every day."

The words of Aaron Aby, 31 from Wrexham, who continues to inspire and the battles he has already overcome in life make the battles in the MMA cage even more enjoyable.

Earlier this month, Mr Aby impressively overcame former world champion Samir Faiddine at Cage Warriors 132 in London.

Aaron was delighted to have won the fight and credited his team.

"It felt great!" he said.

"I enjoyed the performance and it was another goal accomplished with my team. It’s a big win for my MMA career but also a bigger one for my life goals!

"Work has been going in since day one, not just this fight camp. It’s a constant journey of improving and getting better so you can take on the best, I’m constantly working hard to improve.

"I made some changes for this camp and they paid off, I owe a lot to my team! Team effort."

The road hasn't always been plain sailing for Aaron, although he does have a habit of winning.

Aaron was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at just two-weeks-old, yet that never put an end to his sporting aspirations.

A talented footballer when he was young, representing Wales at youth level, attention soon turned to MMA, a sport that he has thrived in.

Then in 2019, Aaron was given the all clear after a two-year battle with cancer and his determination to return to the cage has been nothing short of exceptional.

He added: "I enjoy the whole process to be honest, having been through what I’ve been through I never want to not enjoy every day!

"Moments like this excite and things that I may never have got to experience. I relish the challenges on a big stage, especially being the underdog for this one, no pressure, all fun.

"Every day is a chance to live, life is tough but it can be a gift if you live it to your potential.

"I aim to promote my life story in a positive way so I can motivate others. I always try to be true to myself so I can give people hope and inspiration.

"I am proud if I can help one person and hopefully that can create a ripple effect. Win/lose/draw I always want to give people a bit of hope when they need it most. Especially when the world is currently in a negative vibe, I’m hoping I can be someone to promote some positivity.

Despite the hours of training and preparation that have gone on, there will be no Christmas break, with the martial artist already looking for his next opportunity.

"The work never stops, I've got a week off and back to work. Just need to let some injuries heal up then I’ll be working on improving and getting my team mates and students ready for battle as well! Martial arts is a constant journey of improvement.

"I’m signed to Cage Warriors so I’m waiting to get the call off them and make sure I will be ready to go. Hopefully a big opportunity will be coming in the near future with them after being their former World Champion."