HOUSTON — A gas station clerk with mixed martial arts training surprised would-be thieves outside a convenience store near Houston, according to .

Mayura Dissanyake works at the Fuel Depot. On July 10, his background as a semi-professional mixed martial arts fighter came in handy.

Dissanayake was behind the counter when a co-worker, who had just returned from the bank, was attacked by two men. The suspects were attempting to steal the bank bag from the co-worker.

Dissanayake immediately ran outside and kicked one of the alleged robbers in the face. He was able to subdue one of the suspects, but the second suspect and a driver fled in an SUV.

Police arrested 33-year-old Odell Mathis. He has been charged with robbery with bodily injury.