Written by LIFE IS A FIGHT
LIFE IS A FIGHT
Garry Bell, a renowned martial artist, talks to Andrew Staton at the Doncaster Martial Arts Show 2026.
Garry Bell: Martial Artist, Coach, Promoter, and Hall of Fame Inductee is one of the most influential figures in British kickboxing and combat sports promotion. With nearly four decades of martial arts experience, he has built a reputation as a successful competitor, respected coach, event promoter, and mentor to generations of martial artists. As the founder of Contender Gym and Contender Promotions Fight Federation (CPFF), Bell has played a pivotal role in the development of K-1 kickboxing in the United Kingdom.
His book LIFE IS A FIGHT Unmasked is available with our Amazon affiliate link.
Beginning his martial arts journey at the age of seven, Bell trained in a variety of disciplines including kickboxing, boxing, karate, kung fu, aikido, and mixed martial arts. His passion for combat sports was inspired by legendary K-1 fighters such as Ernesto Hoost, Andy Souwer, Remy Bonjasky, and Ray Sefo. Through years of dedicated training and competition, he rose to become a British K-1 Kickboxing Champion, a three-time European Champion, a former WKO World No. 1-ranked fighter, and a multiple-time Hall of Fame inductee.
In 2006, Bell founded Contender Gym in Stockton-on-Tees with a vision to raise the standard of striking martial arts in North East England. What began as a small training facility evolved into one of the region’s leading martial arts academies, producing champions at amateur and professional levels while fostering values of discipline, respect, resilience, and personal growth.
Bell expanded his influence in 2009 by launching Contender Promotions Fight Federation, which grew into one of the UK’s leading K-1 kickboxing promotions. Through CPFF, he has provided opportunities for fighters from across Britain and around the world to compete on professionally organized events. His efforts have included collaborations with international organizations and combat sports legends, helping elevate the profile of British kickboxing on the global stage.
Today, Garry Bell remains dedicated to developing athletes, promoting elite competition, and inspiring the next generation of martial artists. His legacy extends beyond titles and trophies; it is reflected in the champions he has coached, the fighters he has promoted, and the thriving martial arts community he has helped build throughout the United Kingdom.
Interview filmed by Dean Meadows of Pentagram Pictures
With thanks to Bob Sykes, Paul Barnett and the UK Martial Arts Show.
We may benefit from affiliate links, which help produce more content.
Join World of Martial Arts Television to get access to perks
Thanks for reading & watching, we hope you enjoyed it, please LIKE, SHARE and don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to World of Martial Arts Television for more great content!!
The post LIFE IS A FIGHT first appeared on World of Martial Arts | WOMA.