Leigh fighter takes gold with broken rib in Las Vegas

Shaun Mitty, 54, has been involved in judo since he was seven-years-old and has picked up multiple British championship events during his fighting career.

After travelling to Las Vegas to take part in this year’s “World Veteran Championships”, Shaun faced a gruelling battle against some of the best fighters from across 67 nations.

Competing against fighters from the USA, Brazil and Germany, Shaun dislocated his toe in his fourth fight, leaving it “hanging out at 90 degrees” and broke his rib following a throw.Victory - Shaun Mitty and coaches (Image: Shaun Mitty) Throw - Shaun Mitty (Image: Shaun Mitty)

Despite the injuries Shaun, a dad-of-three, dug deep and managed to take victory in the final despite the numerous painful injuries. 

He said: “My opponent came in for a throw and my rib cracked and broke, I knew what I had done on the floor. You can only take half a breath and I was taking little breaths, I knew I had to finish him with no caution.

“You have to play with the brain, I had a lay down and strapped it up and had a practice and I said unless I take painkillers, I won’t be able to fight.” 

Podium - Shaun's podium shot (Image: Shaun Mitty)

Shaun added: “The painkillers kicked in, I battled and fought, in my head I couldn’t just take the silver, I am a tactical fighter.

“I was in immense pain, with my posture I was trying to protect myself and my opponent never picked up that I had a broken rib.”

Shaun, who is an instructor at Westcliff Judo Club, is overjoyed at the win which comes as the result of almost 21 hours a week of training and six months of consistent work to build his core strength.

He added: “I couldn’t be happier, this has come at the right time of year for my kids and family.

“My youngest daughter said ‘are you the best in the world for your age?’, she is 17 and I feel for them I am setting a precedent.”