Kiya Mills cradles her baby with all the tender love of a new mum.

But she will be putting her hands to a very different use when she steps into the boxing ring - just 17 weeks after giving birth.

The 24-year-old from Canterbury is training for her debut bout at Gillingham’s Priestfield Stadium on Saturday.

She said: "It might sound a bit crazy after just having a baby, but I wanted to get fit and a friend invited me down to a boxing gym a few weeks ago.

"I’m a bit of a boxing fan and really enjoyed it . My coach says I’ve got good speed and power and he thinks I’m ready. I’m really looking forward to it.

"I think it’s good for women to get out there in all sports."

Kiya and partner Dawn Burford, 30, of Querns Road, have called their daughter Miracle after she was conceived through a sperm donor.

Kiya, who used to work at McDonald’s in Canterbury, said: "I always wanted to be a mum but because of my sexuality, I never thought it would be possible. But it worked first time against the odds and that’s why we called her Miracle. She really is an amazing gift to us."

Dawn, who has four young children from a previous relationship, said she only discovered her real sexuality after meeting Kiya three years ago.

She said: "Because I’ve had children, I’ve been able to offer a bit of advice to Kiya, but she really is a natural.

"I knew she would be because she is great with my kids.

"I’m going along to the fight to support her but am a little bit worried because I love her to bits.

"I just hope that Miracle still recognises her if she comes home with a black eye."

Kiya has always been keen on sport, and previously played for Herne Bay Ladies football team.

To support Kiya and buy tickets for the fight night, visit Great British Boxing Union on Facebook.