Walthamstow’s Olympic bronze medallist Lutalo Muhammad is number one in the world after winning the inaugural World Taekwondo Grand Prix in Manchester.

The 22-year-old edged a tense final in the -80kg category, beating Russia’s Albert Gaun in sudden death after the match ended 1-1 after three rounds.

The win came after Muhammad had beaten 2011 World Championship silver medallist Yunu Sari from Turkey in the semi-finals.

Muhammad’s triumph and top ranking is particularly significant given his controversial selection for Team GB at London 2012.

Muhammad was picked ahead of Aaron Cook, who was number one in the world at the time.

Cook claimed a bronze medal in Manchester after losing to Albert Gaun in the semi-finals.