Etchells, who has been working for the world's leading Olympic news website since September 2014, has built up a reputation for his quality and in-depth coverage of the sport.

During 2015, Etchells covered major sambo events in Zagreb and Baku, as well as the second edition of The President's Cup, which took place in Manchester.

He then provided comprehensive coverage of the World Sambo Championships in Casablanca, producing a blog at the conclusion of the competition.

Etchells also had an exclusive interview with International Sambo Federation (FIAS) President Vasily Shestakov, where he discussed the martial art's hopes of being recognised by the International Olympic Committee.

As a result of his coverage of the sport, FIAS announced the 27-year-old as a nominee for the prestigious prize, with Etchells now due to travel to Moscow for the ceremony over Easter.

“This is the first award I have been nominated for in journalism and the thought of spending Easter in Moscow is a really exciting prospect,” he said.

“Working for insidethegames.biz gives me a fabulous opportunity to travel and to write about sports of all kinds, including sambo.”

The recognition of his work comes after senior reporter Nick Butler came third in the Journalistic Weblog category at the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) Sport Media Pearl Awards in December.

insidethegames managing director Sarah Bowron praised Etchells' contribution after his nomination.

“Since joining our talented team in September 2014, Daniel has more than proved his skill and dedication," she said.

“His insightful breaking news stories and in-depth blogs contribute in no small measure in helping to make insidethegames.biz the global leader in providing news from the worlds of Olympic, Commonwealth and Paralympic Games.

“Many congratulations to Daniel on being shortlisted for this award; we are sure it will be the first of many in his career.”