A COCAINE and alcohol-fuelled teenager nearly blinded a taekwondo world champion after punching him in the face while he was wearing his glasses.

Newport Crown Court heard how Ethan Jones, 19, broke Kade Williams’ spectacles which went into his eyes in the unprovoked attack.

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The victim was brutally assaulted after going to help his girlfriend who was being abused by the defendant, Nuhu Gobir, prosecuting, said.

Mr Williams’ glasses became embedded in his face after Jones punched him at the Pontlottyn Empire Club, Caerphilly, on the night of Saturday, November 14, 2020.

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Judge Jeremy Jenkins said: “It was lucky he didn’t lose his eyes.”

Jones, who was aged 18 at the time, told police he had snorted 5g of cocaine and drank 20 drinks which included vodka, gin and Strongbow cider.

He described his intoxication level as 8/10.

Mr Gobir said Mr Williams suffered a fractured eye socked, broken nose and has a permanent scar above his left eyebrow.

The defendant, of Coedymoeth Road, Aberbargoed, pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm.

He had no previous convictions.

Richard Ace, representing Jones, said: “The defendant is an immature young man who behaved disgracefully.

“He seems genuinely remorseful for what he has done.”

Judge Jenkins told the defendant: “You has 20 drinks and took cocaine.

“You behaved disgracefully towards Mr Williams’ girlfriend and he went to her assistance.

“You struck him without provocation when he was wearing spectacles.

“The glasses broke and went into his eyes – he could have been blinded.

“If he had, you would be going to prison for a long, long time.”

Jones was spared prison and sentenced to a two-year community order.

He must perform 100 hours of unpaid work and complete a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement.

The defendant must pay £1,200 prosecution costs and a victim surcharge.