Ashbourne fighter looks to conquer Europe

Next Saturday night 18th November, young Ashbourne man Aaron Browne takes to the ring in search of a European title in a discipline that bears some resemblance to MMA, a sport that has become well known to many  due to the exploits of one Conor McGregor. 
At the St Finbarr's GAA Club in Cabra, Browne will step into the ring and take on Italian Giuseppe Conti in a Thai Boxing contest. 
The fight is a "European title eliminator" with Browne looking to add the European crown to the All-Ireland titles he currently holds at 67kg and 70kg categories. 
The 24-year-old Ashbourne man is also the holder of the 70kg World professional title and holds the prestigious WLF (World League of Fighters) belt.  
He is coached by Collie Mahon at the  Dublin Combat Academy and is supported by Talent Entertainment which specialises in marking fights and contracts. 
Thai boxing (also known as Muay Thai) is, as the name suggests, a popular combat sport in countries such as Thailand and "uses stand up striking with various clinching techniques." It is a sport characterised by the combined use of "fists, elbows, knees and shins and feet."
Browne has grappled with various issues since he was a youngster to become to successful practitioner of his chosen sport. 
"At the age of eight he was diagnosed with dyslexia and two years later it was discovered he also suffers from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and dyspraxia. School was pretty much a nightmare for Aaron," comments his manager and father Gerry Browne. 
"At 15 he left school and joined Ashbourne Boxing gym under the stewardship of noted coach Des Donnelly. At 17 he won the Meath novice title and reached the Leinster final to be beaten on a split decision.
"He discovered Muay Thai and in four years he won seven titles, four Irish and three international belts."
Within the last year Browne has represented Ireland in K1 and full Muay Thai in China, UK, Canada as well as several shows in Ireland.
"He is totally dedicated to his sport and train three times every day," adds Gerry. 

The doors open at St Finbarr's GAA club on Saturday 18th November for the fight at 6pm. Tickets are €25, walk up tickets €30 with full bar, hot food and "ring girls" among the attractions.