After finishing third at last year's European Championship, Ipswich youngster Maximilian Sujewicz returned to Lisbon and claimed gold.

The 11-year-old, who has been training in Brazilian jiu-jitsu since the age of four, won both of his matches by submission to secure the title at the IBJJF No-Gi European Championship.

Brazilian jiu-jitsu is a martial art where competitors use grappling, holds and submissions to force their opponent to give up.

From bronze to gold: Maximilian Sujewicz on the podium after winning the IBJJF No-Gi European Championship (Image: Diana Sujewicz-Dostalova)

Max's father and coach, Pawel Sujewicz, who runs Ipswich Combat Academy, said watching his son compete was a nerve-racking experience.

“I think I was close to having a heart attack. I’m a black belt and have been coaching children in Ipswich for ten years.

“It’s definitely a bit more stressful when you are watching your own son out there.”

He said Max's success was down to hard work and determination.

“We treat Max the same as the other students and it doesn’t matter that he’s our son.

“We want him to keep setting an example for the other students. There is no magic in his success, it’s just hard work.”

Max is now aiming to compete once a month, with the English Open next on his list.

Longer term, he hopes to compete at the World Championships in the United States.

Max's mother, Diana Sujewicz-Dostalova, a black belt and coach at Ipswich Combat Academy, said his success was not only a proud moment for the family but also for the local jiu-jitsu community.

“It’s great for Ipswich and Suffolk jiu-jitsu.

“The sport is so valuable for children as it teaches resilience and focus.”

She said competing itself was an achievement, regardless of the result.

“Even when our students lose, we celebrate it because they have been brave enough to step out and give it a go.”