Last week, the 22-year-old stepped into the ring for his first professional fight.

Although he lost his bout with much more experienced fighter Aaron Ryan in the Jabout Shockwave Tournament, hosted by Penrith Panthers World of Entertainment, he is hoping it could be the launching pad for his professional career in martial arts.

"If I can make a professional career out of something I love, then that will let me retire a very happy man. I love it," Holmes said.

Years of cross training and preparation, including several months of studying in Thailand, have got Holmes where he is today- ready to step into the professional arena.

"I believe cross-training is essential for becoming a true professional at martial arts," Holmes said.

"I'm training every day, giving it my all and I think that's paying off."

Holmes began training with Tamotoa martial arts in Bowral, learning Kung-Fu under the guidance of Sifu Steve Atkinson for two-and-a-half years, before he switched to Bowral Martial Arts to train in more mainstream forms of fighting, like karate and kickboxing.

Full story: SHN, Wednesday, March 29, 2006.