Chris Batchelor is a Technology Transfer Fellow at Swansea University, specialising in Coatings development and degradation, and microplastics analysis. For the last 5 years, Chris has been combining cutting-edge research in coatings, degradation, and microplastics analysis with high-level competition in both Judo and Brazilian Jiu-jitsu.
Chris’s journey into sport began early. As a child, he joined Bury Judo Club, and what started as a childhood activity evolved into a serious competitive pursuit.
After returning to Judo as an adult, Chris expanded his skillset, taking up Brazilian Jiu-jitsu to compliment and expand his talent.
His achievements to date include:
- Multiple podium finishes at the Welsh National Championships
- Current Welsh Judo Team member
- Gold medalist at the National Masters Gi Open Weight (Brazilian Jiu-jitsu)
- Winner of a Polaris Uprising superfight
These milestones reflect years of consistent effort and strategic progression.
Rather than a single defining moment, Chris’s transition toward elite competition came from a desire to challenge himself. He periodically trained with high level practitioners, exposing him to the standards required at the top. Those experiences, combined with a commitment to continuous improvement, pushed him to pursue competitive environments.
Balancing a full-time academic role with elite sport requires careful planning and discipline, and Chris’s weekly schedule is intense:
- 3–4 strength and conditioning sessions
- 6–7 technical and sparring sessions
To make it work, he structures his day with precision – strength training in the early mornings before work, and technical sparing sessions in the evenings.
Support plays a crucial role in sustaining this routine. Chris credits his wife as his biggest supporter, alongside a dedicated Strength and Conditioning coach and nutritionist who specialises in grappling athletes. This team allows him to focus on performance without being overwhelmed by planning.
To cope with the mental challenges of competing at a high level, Chris focuses on controlling what he can – executing his game plan rather than worrying about his opponent. One particularly effective strategy he uses is the Batman Effect, a psychological technique where athletes adopt an alter ego to navigate stressful situations with increased confidence.
This approach proved useful during his headline match at the Polaris Uprising event in 2025, where he performed in front of a sold-out crowd. By using mental triggers and staying focused on his own execution, he was able to rise to the occasion and focus on the match.
In sport, Chris’s goal is to continue developing his skillset and compete at higher-level events whenever possible. Professionally, he aims to continue his research in microplastics analysis while gaining experience in lecturing and supervising doctoral students.
For those aspiring to pursue elite sport alongside a full-time job, Chris offers grounded advice: balance is key.
“Making time for family and friends is essential, not optional. Burnout is a real risk, and a strong support network can make all the difference in sustaining long-term performance and wellbeing.”
Chris emphasises the importance of having teammates and coaches who are genuinely invested in your development as an athlete.
He credits Dragons Academy for his progress in Judo, particularly in achieving his Dan grading and competition success. Similarly, his growth in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and submission grappling has been shaped by the coaching and training environment at Nails Fight Centre.
