Two nine-year-old brothers from Broughshane are making waves across the world of combat sports, winning titles in judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu while remaining unbeaten in MMA.

Hunter and Crixus Crawford, affectionately known locally as the ‘Viking Twins’ because of their imposing stature and formerly braided hair, have enjoyed a remarkable year of sporting success.

The brothers recently claimed double gold at the Northern Ireland Judo Championships, becoming Under-12 Northern Ireland Champions 2026.

Their performances have also earned them selection for the Northern Ireland Judo Pathway Squad.

Hunter and Crixus Crawford, affectionately known locally as the ‘Viking Twins’ with Mayor Thomas Gordon. Photo: MEABC

placeholder image — Hunter and Crixus Crawford, affectionately known locally as the ‘Viking Twins’ with Mayor Thomas Gordon. Photo: MEABC

In recognition of their achievements, the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Thomas Gordon, hosted a reception to celebrate the young sporting talents and their success in representing the local area.

Mayor Gordon said: “Hunter and Crixus Crawford, our ‘Viking Twins’, have enjoyed an extraordinary run of success, despite only beginning their judo journey last year at the age of eight.

“It was great to hear how the promise they showed from the outset saw them win bronze medals at their first competition after just a few weeks of training. They quickly followed this with another bronze medal at the prestigious All-Ireland Championships, held at the National Sports Arena in Dublin.

“Beyond the medals, what stands out most is the character shown by these young sportsmen. Regularly competing against older and more experienced opponents, the twins have demonstrated that hard work, belief and determination can overcome any obstacle.

Devastated hometown of Ciara Mageean to 'wrap her family in love'

“As young ambassadors for Ballymena, Hunter and Crixus continue to represent their town with respect, humility and excellent sportsmanship. Their story highlights the positive impact sport can have on young people and serves as an inspiration to other children considering taking up competitive sport.

“At just nine years old, the Viking Twins are already carrying the torch for Ballymena, and many believe this remarkable journey is only just beginning.”

One of the brothers’ proudest achievements was winning the Amy Nolan Memorial Trophy, which they dedicated to their father, Graham, during his battle with cancer.

Their success continued at the highly competitive NI Open Invitational, where both brothers secured silver medals before setting their sights on gold.

That breakthrough came at the Northern Ireland Judo Championships, where Hunter and Crixus claimed gold in their respective weight divisions, securing the titles of Under-12 Northern Ireland Judo Champions 2026.

The talented twins have also excelled in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, recently becoming NI Open Champions in both Gi and No-Gi. They have also made an impressive start in mixed martial arts (MMA), remaining unbeaten with three wins from three fights.

Coached by Danny Nolan of County Antrim Judo and Martin Begley of Heat MMA Antrim, the brothers have gone on to earn praise for their talent, determination and sportsmanship, with their coaches believing they have a very bright future ahead of them.

With Northern Ireland titles in judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, selection for the Northern Ireland Judo Pathway Squad and an unbeaten MMA record already to their names, Ballymena’s ‘Viking Twins’ are proving that age is no barrier to ambition.