**Warning graphic images**

A TRAINED fighter repeatedly stabbed by a knife gang who tried to mug him believes his knowledge of martial arts saved his life.

Louis Nicholson, 22, was walking through Seabrook Rise, Grays, at 4pm, when he was approached by a group of eight thugs who demanded his phone.

Louis, who is trained in MMA and coaches sessions in Corringham, refused - before a vicious fight broke out.

As the gang attacked Louis, fought back, gaining the upper hand before the group pulled out knives and stabbed him multiple times.

He was knifed under the armpit, and received a large gash to his arm.

The incident, in Thames Road, took place in broad daylight, at roughly 4pm last Tuesday.

Louis told: “So I’m walking through Seabrook Rise in Grays minding my business when eight people decide they wanted to liberate my hard-earned possessions from me.

“Long story short I said I was down to swing like I’m not giving you my stuff without a tear up, probably a stupid move realise that now.

“So anyway we start fighting, one person against eight, bare in mind so I’m doing my best to keep them at bay even manage to spin two of them.

“Anyway at this point the absolute cowards decide eight versus one isn’t a big enough advantage for them so they pull out there blades and start stabbing and slashing at me while I’m trying to fight off the others.

“And the funny thing this all happened at 4 o’clock in the afternoon in broad daylight!

“I have to say though that with zero shadow of a doubt martial arts saved my life.

“I would not be here if not for being able to create space and get out of there.

“So honestly get your kids trained in martial arts, I can not stress it enough, it is literally a matter of life and death - stay safe everyone.”

Essex Police is appealing for information into the attack. 

A spokesman confirmed Louis was taken to hospital for injuries described as serious, but not life threatening.

Anyone with information and dash cam and CCTV footage is asked to call Grays CID on 101 quoting crime reference 42/140736/18.