Rotorua's Riini Apo has claimed his first victory overseas as he follows his dream of becoming a UFC fighter.
Apo travelled to Las Vegas at the end of June to compete at the inaugural International Mixed Martial Arts Federation World Championships.
Apo was chosen to attend the international amateur event after his Brazilian jiu jitsu trainer, Leon Corbett, put his name forward for the New Zealand team.
Fighting in the heavyweight class, the 98kg athlete came up against an experienced American fighter in his opening match.
Apo won the bout with a submission in the third round. He then went up against a Polish fighter in the semifinals the next day, losing on points.