Sunderland wrestler Sugar Ray Taylor looking to win at one of Europe’s biggest wrestling events - Slam Wrestling Finland

The event, which will take place on October 8 and 9 and is available on pay per view on the Slam Wrestling streaming network, will see bouts between some of the world’s top wrestlers including 5ft 9 and 17-and-a-half stone heavyweight Shaun.

Slam Wrestling is is billed as the “best in international professional wrestling in the Nordics and Baltics” and was formed by three-time European wrestling champion ‘The Rebel Starbuck’, otherwise known as Michael Majalahti, who will also be competing.

Shaun, 36, said: “This is one of the biggest high profile events in Europe and I can’t wait to take part. I’ve been wrestling since I was 14 and I’ve trained all my life for an opportunity like this.

"People have paid good money for tickets and pay per view at what is obviously a difficult time and so I’m taking it very seriously and always look to give my best.”

Shaun’s training regime has focused on a combination of building his physique and developing his skills in the art of wrestling.

He said: “I train at Fitness 2000 Gym in Roker where I do lots of weights and go through my own drills. I also spend time in Manchester with trainer and former professional wrestler Marty Jones where you learn how to take hits and get out of holds.”

To develop his wrestling frame Shaun also has to follow a strict diet.

He said: “I eat a lot of fish, particularly cod and tuna, along with baked potatoes and rice. I don’t eat a lot of red meat as it’s difficult to digest. Every Saturday i do allow myself the treat of a takeaway.”

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While the tournament will involve the elite of the continent’s wrestlers, Shaun is going into the competition, which is hosted in the Helsinki, with one thing on his mind.

He said: “I know I’m going to be up against top guys but I’m going there looking to win. I’ve had a lot of support leading up to this event from my mam and dad, Michael and Janet, and my partner Angela Connelly.”