An 18-year-old kickboxing world champion is facing accusations of causing the death of a man as he prepares for trial next year. Tyler Ford, hailing from Morriston, Swansea, appeared in Swansea Crown Court, charged with the alleged murder of Ceiran Evans, also 18, from Gorseinon, who passed away following a road traffic incident. Additionally, Ford faces charges of attempted murder involving another individual. Despite being a nine-time world kickboxing champion, Ford only confirmed his identity during the brief court appearance and has not entered any pleas yet.

During the hearing, Judge Paul Thomas KC scheduled a plea and case management session for September 29, with a two-week trial set to commence on January 11. Ford was remanded into custody by the judge, who stated that the defendant would remain in custody until the next hearing. The charges stem from a collision between a car and an off-road bike on Pen Cae Crwn Road in Gorseinon on July 9.

Yesterday, Mr. Evans’s family honored his memory, expressing their deep love and sorrow: “Ceiran was cherished beyond words and will be dearly missed every single day. His gentle heart, witty humor, affectionate demeanor, and radiant smile brought immense joy to all who knew him. He will always be our beloved baby boy, forever loved, forever remembered, and never forgotten.”