Full Name:
Tom Ackerly

Age:
28

Where were you born:
Tasmania

Where do you live:
Tasmania

Which gym do you train out of:
Hybrid Training Centre

Who are your coaches:
Chris Drummond, Kahn Sandy, Rob Wilkinson

What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist:
Purple Belt in BJJ

What sports or activities did you participate in growing up:
Rugby and Motocross

When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession:
I started training at 17 as a hobby, had a few amateur fights, and since 2021 I’ve seen it more as a career pathway rather than just a sport.

Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why:
Wednesday wrestling class — I enjoy the high pace and pushing myself to hit takedowns even when exhausted.

What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter:
My ability to keep emotions in check and my drive to win.

How would you describe your fighting style:
A jack of all trades but a master of none — I embody what MMA is: a true mixture of martial arts.

What is your favourite sport and why:
Enduro motorbike riding — I love the thrill of a tough trail and testing myself.

Who is your favourite athlete:
Rich Froning

Who is your favourite combat sports athlete:
Darren Till

What are your immediate and long-term goals:
To take the fights that come my way. I know this isn’t an old man’s game and I have plans to start a family soon, so for now I’m going with the flow and seeing what comes.

When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect:
An entertaining fight.

How do you see your upcoming fight playing out:
I don’t believe in easy fights — I haven’t had one yet. I expect him to throw everything at me, and I plan on doing the same.

A final message to any friends, family and supporters:
Thank you to anyone who has supported me along the way.

Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you (socials):
I’m a bit of a ghost on socials.

Watch Tom Ackerly fight at Eternal MMA 99 on Saturday, October 11.