Alex Reid's Islamic lessons

Alex Reid has become interested in learning more about Islam since getting involved in a project to teach underprivileged children kickboxing.

Alex Reid is learning about Islam.

The cage-fighter is currently working on a project to help get underprivileged children involved in kickboxing, and is learning about the lives of Muslim communities and their religion at the same time.

He explained: "I've been volunteering for a scheme to get underprivileged kids into kickboxing. We visit communities and try to get the kids to integrate more through the coaching sessions.

"The guy who runs it is Muslim, as are a lot of the kids, and it has really taught me how good the religion is - Islam is about being peaceful."

Alex decided to study the religion to help him become a better "role model" for youngsters.

He explained: "I am seen as a role model to the kids, and can teach them morals as well as fighting skills."

Earlier this year, Alex - who is married to former glamour model Katie Price - claimed he wanted to be more like the Christian religious figure Jesus, because the world can be such a "nasty" place.

He said: "The fact is, this is a nasty world. And that's why I do martial arts. And also a wonderful world and that's why I say, 'Para bellum.' They're Latin words, which I can't remember exactly, but they mean, 'For peace, prepare for war.' That's kind of my motto.

"I mean, I wish I could be more like Gandhi or Jesus. Turn the other cheek. Because when he came across confrontation, he just let them strike him down! But for me, no!"