A VETERAN Thai boxer from Bolton has proven the old adage 'age is just a number' by winning his first ever fight at the age of 65 against an opponent 40 years his junior.

Andy Januszewski, of Eagley Bank, defeated his 25-year-old competitor on points after three rounds in a gloved Thai boxing fight at Bowlers in Manchester.

Januszewski, who works as an operations manager for an online retailer, admitted to being a little nervy on the morning of the big day, but all his training paid off in the ring as he was cheered on by family and friends.

He said: "The support was fantastic.

"Due to the amount of work I put into training I felt confident going into the fight but more apprehensive as the day went on.

"I’d put a lot into this and wanted to perform well.”

Januszewski took up karate in his 30s but then gave up while still maintaining his fitness in the gym.

Then, he met Andy Bakewell, a head Thai boxing coach in his home town, who suggested he trained under his teaching 18 months ago.

After 12 hard months of training, Januszewski challenged himself to take on a fight, before six more months of tough preparation prior to the match which took place last weekend.

And while he is hanging up his gloves after his victory, he wants it to inspire others in their senior years.

He added: “My family and friends are really proud, and I would like to get more people my age into the sport and help them get active and healthy.

"I might even start my own TV show about 65-year-old fighters.

"I believe you can do anything and never think of age as a barrier.

"In my mind, I’m as fit as any 25-year-old.”

The fight has gained more than 90,000 views on social media so far, and Januszewski plans to keep up his training in the gym, despite retiring with an impressive 100-per-cent win record.

After commenting he was "looking forward to taking the win" before the match, his younger opponent seemed to underestimate him but in Januszewski's words showed "nothing but respect after the fight", congratulating him on the victory.

Coach Bakewell, who is co-owner at Anarchy Martial Arts in Bolton, explained his pride in the underdog after his hard work and dedication.

“I was really proud of how Andy fought.

"He listened well and showed big heart.

"He deserves recognition for what he’s achieved.”