EditorNEATH: Martial arts school with Michael Jackson connection opening in Neath — as South Wales expansion gathers pace
A martial arts school founded by the man who was Michael Jackson’s personal bodyguard is opening in Neath later this month — the latest in a string of South Wales locations that have already proved so popular they are nearly full after just a few classes.
MF Martial Arts opens at Dyffryn Clydach Memorial Hall on Monday 14th April, bringing to Neath a programme that franchise owner Lee Howell says is about far more than kicks and punches — it is about giving children the confidence, resilience and self-belief that can change their lives.
The franchise was founded by Matt Fiddes, who became one of Britain’s most successful martial arts entrepreneurs after an unlikely start — as the teenage bodyguard of the world’s most famous pop star. Fiddes worked alongside Michael Jackson from 1999 to 2009, having offered to help with security when he was just 18 years old.
“We became friends, and I noticed he was struggling with the security teams,” Fiddes has said. “I offered to take that on for free. I walked straight into it — I was only 18, and didn’t realise how popular he was.”
Fiddes went on to build the Matt Fiddes Martial Arts brand into the world’s largest chain of martial arts schools, with more than 2,000 franchise locations across the UK and beyond. He holds an 8th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo.
The man bringing the franchise to Neath has his own compelling story. Lee Howell, who is relocating to South Wales, took up martial arts at the age of 40 — initially so he could join his son in classes and help him train at home. What he found changed his outlook entirely.
“Being part of MF Martial Arts has completely transformed my children’s and my own confidence and well-being,” he said. “I wanted to create a space where more young people could experience that same life-changing impact — somewhere they feel safe, strong, and capable.”
Lee Howell, left, with MF Martial Arts founder Matt Fiddes at a championship event. Howell is bringing the franchise to Neath, with schools already open in Brackla, Rhiwbina and Barry. Image credit: MF Martial Arts / suppliedHowell has already opened schools in Brackla, Rhiwbina and Barry, and says the demand has been striking. “To see our Brackla, Rhiwbina and Barry schools nearly full after a few classes just proves how much parents and young people are looking for that safe outlet,” he said. Neath is the next step in what he intends to be a much wider South Wales operation, with more schools planned in the months ahead.
The school will focus on children’s mental health as well as physical fitness, with classes designed to build confidence, reduce anxiety and create a sense of belonging. All instructors are DBS checked and the franchise is registered within the education sector, running its own in-house championship programme. Junior and adult instructor pathways are also available for those who want to progress into teaching.
“We’re not just teaching martial arts — we’re giving children the tools to build confidence, overcome challenges, and believe in themselves,” Howell said. “We want to create a space where every child feels part of something bigger, where they can express themselves, make friends, and develop confidence that lasts a lifetime.”
Classes cater for children from the age of three through to adults of all ages and abilities. A free trial class is available for new students.
MF Martial Arts opens at Dyffryn Clydach Memorial Hall, Neath on Tuesday 14th April. For more information or to book a free trial, contact Lee Howell at [email protected] or call 07523 057689.
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