Luke Debono: From Bodybuilding Glory to Education and Reality TV Fame
When you hear the name Luke Debono, several different images might come to mind. For some, he is the towering figure on stage, a bodybuilder who represented Malta and conquered international competitions like the Arnold Classic Europe. For others, he is remembered from Married at First Sight UK (MAFS UK), where his charm, vulnerability, and personal story made him one of the season’s most talked-about grooms. Today, Luke is equally well known for his role as a Special Education Needs (SEN) teacher and trauma-informed practitioner in the United Kingdom. His journey reflects a unique blend of resilience, personal growth, and dedication to helping others.
This article explores Luke’s life story, his professional achievements, and his personal journey—from bodybuilding champion to educator, and his much-discussed stint on Married at First Sight UK.
Early Life and Education
Growing up in Malta
Born and raised in Malta, Luke developed a passion for both sport and education at an early age. His upbringing on the island shaped his competitive spirit and gave him the drive to succeed internationally.
Academic Achievements
Luke’s education has been both rigorous and impressive. He attended Malta Junior College between 2009 and 2011, where he pursued studies in marketing and ICT alongside a passion for sports.
He then advanced to the University of Malta, completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education Teaching and Coaching with a commendable 2:1 grade. His dissertation explored eating behaviours among overweight individuals, reflecting his long-standing interest in health and wellbeing.
Not one to settle, Luke moved to the UK in 2015 to pursue further education. At the University of Kent, he successfully completed an MSc in Sports Science for Optimal Performance with distinction. His research explored the effects of insulin on protein metabolism and net balance in vivo, demonstrating a blend of academic curiosity and applied knowledge.
Luke Debono the Bodybuilder
Competitive Career
Luke’s name is etched in the bodybuilding world. As a semi-professional bodybuilder, he represented Malta in international competitions and quickly rose to prominence. His career highlights include winning the Arnold Classic Europe Overall Title in 2016 and the Ben Weider Legacy Cup Overall Winner award the same year. He also received the Gold Award from the Malta Olympic Committee, cementing his place among the nation’s most successful athletes.
Global Exposure
Through bodybuilding, Luke travelled widely, attending events across Europe and beyond. These experiences gave him a global outlook, introducing him to diverse cultures and allowing him to build lasting connections with people from all walks of life.
Physical Stature
While his exact height has not been widely reported, Luke competed in the heavyweight category, typically over 100 kilograms, making him a formidable presence on stage. His dedication to training, nutrition, and discipline made him a respected figure among peers and fans alike.
Transition to Education and Rehabilitation
Richard Geres Personal Training
Luke’s professional journey began in Malta as a personal trainer with Richard Geres Personal Training. Over three years, he built a client base of over 100 individuals, working on weight management, post-injury rehabilitation, and lifestyle changes. His work extended to clinical populations such as the elderly, diabetics, and people living with obesity.
Special Education Roles
Upon moving to the UK, Luke shifted his focus to teaching. He worked at Bower Grove School in Maidstone as a class teacher within a Special Education Needs environment. Later, he taught at Nexus Foundation Special School in Tonbridge, furthering his expertise in SEN education.
Novus – Foundations for Change
Perhaps his most impactful role came at Novus – Foundations for Change, where Luke spent six years. He began as a Fitness Tutor and TLA Champion, teaching sports science and fitness within a youth correctional facility. Later, he became Curriculum Manager, overseeing programmes that empowered young offenders through education. His trauma-informed approach, combined with his background in sport and fitness, allowed him to mentor individuals seeking a second chance.
Five Acre Wood School
In 2025, Luke joined Five Acre Wood School in Kent as a Special Education Teacher. Here, he supports students with special educational needs through tailored learning strategies, structured interventions, and close collaboration with families and multidisciplinary teams. His focus is on fostering independence, confidence, and lifelong learning.
Luke Debono on Married at First Sight UK
A Leap into Reality TV
Luke’s fame spread beyond sport and education when he appeared on Married at First Sight UK, Series 9 in 2024. At 30 years old, he entered the experiment hoping to find lasting love. Viewers were intrigued by his backstory as a prison education manager and former bodybuilder from Malta.
Relationship with Amy Kenyon
On the show, Luke was paired with Amy Kenyon, a wedding planner. While there was initial excitement, cracks soon appeared. At their vow renewal, Amy declared the marriage over in dramatic fashion, signalling that their journey together had ended.
Media Reactions
Luke’s honesty about his past—including admitting to infidelity in a previous relationship—was considered a red flag by some viewers. Nevertheless, his openness and vulnerability made him a memorable participant. Even after the show, he remained a topic of conversation, with rumours of feuds among cast members and speculation about his love life making headlines.
Personal Life: Age, Wife, and Kids
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Age: Luke was 30 years old during his time on Married at First Sight UK.
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Wife: His marriage to Amy Kenyon was part of the show’s format and did not last beyond filming.
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Children: As of now, there is no public record of Luke having children.
Professional Skills and Approach
Trauma-Informed Practitioner
Luke’s work in both SEN education and prison rehabilitation is underpinned by a trauma-informed approach. He recognises the impact of adverse experiences on learning and behaviour, tailoring his methods to meet individual needs.
Dedication to Empowerment
Whether in the gym, classroom, or correctional facility, Luke has consistently championed empowerment through education. He believes strongly in giving people the tools to succeed, regardless of their starting point.
Honours and Awards
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Gold Award – Malta Olympic Committee, 2016
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Ben Weider Legacy Cup Overall Winner – IFBB International, 2016
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Arnold Classic Europe Overall Winner – IFBB International, 2016
These accolades highlight not just his physical strength but also his commitment to excellence.
Conclusion
The story of Luke Debono is one of transformation, resilience, and purpose. From the bodybuilding stages of Europe to the classrooms of Kent, and even the reality TV spotlight, he has continually sought to challenge himself and inspire others. His journey reflects a belief that growth is driven by passion, sustained through action, and shared through education.
Whether remembered as a bodybuilder, a teacher, or a Married at First Sight UK groom, Luke Debono remains a figure of intrigue and inspiration—an individual who continues to bridge the worlds of sport, education, and entertainment.
