NEWLY crowned 19-year-old World Wrestling Entertainment's first UK champion Tyler Bate is getting plaudits after making history in Blackpool.

One of the first people to congratulate the Netherton superstar-in-the-making after becoming the first ever WWE UK champion was the principal of his old school Ormiston Forge Academy.

Andrew Burns, Ormiston Forge Academy principal, said: "We are all incredibly proud of Tyler's achievement last night.

"He's shown that age and where you come from isn't a barrier to success. He'll inspire Forge students and he'll inspire young people all over the world, wherever he goes. He's worked hard and is a leading light for bright young talent from this area."

He added: "Congratulations Tyler."

Speaking after his win at the Empress Ballrooms the new champion said: "It is quite surreal, but I just do not have words.

"I've never been speechless, but I've never been this overwhelmed. I pictured myself as a kid as a WWE champion but now I am a champion I am so overwhelmed with happiness."

"This victory is for all the fans who have supported British wrestling. Without the fans there would be no WWE UK championship.

"I'd like to thank all the wrestlers who were in this championship.

"I'd like to thank my parents who have driven me around the country since I was 15-years-old to allow me to do what I love."

The vegan added: "I'd also like to thank my friends who have been with me all the way."

Wolverhampton's William Regal, WWE wrestler and executive, is delighted with the new champion.

He said: "You can teach people to fight, how to wrestle but you cannot not teach fighting spirit and that is what Tyler Bate has got.

"He will keep moving forward and I could not be more proud of him right now."

The voice of WWE, Michael Cole, the long-time broadcast commentator for WWE RAW, said: "What an incredible two days, I am overcome with emotion, thank you to all the UK fans.

"Tyler Bate is the future. No doubt, he is the real deal."

Wrestling superstar Stephanie McMahon tweeted her two million followers: "Congratulations to all the UK competitors, the fans who made WWE UK championship possible and Tyler Bate on becoming the 1st ever WWE UK champion."

Wrestler Lince Dorado added: "Congratulations to Tyler Bate for becoming the 1st ever WWE UK CT Champion.

"Such an amazing showing from start to finish."