Full Name:
Jay Jay Ioane
Age:
31
Where were you born:
Auckland, New Zealand
Where do you live:
Gold Coast, Australia
Which gym do you train out of:
DTV Academy
Who are your coaches:
Dylan Andrews and Vincent Perry
What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist:
Fought over multiple disciplines and hold a blue belt in BJJ
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up:
Family were rugby heads, but I was always attracted to combat sports. I also surfed growing up.
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession:
I was first introduced to MMA when I was a teenager back in Auckland. I stopped because I wanted to pursue surfing instead. Fast forward to 2020 and I fell down the rabbit hole of MMA again. Two years later I debuted and have been hooked on the sport ever since.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why:
Saturday sparring becomes really competitive when someone’s in camp. This time we have four of us on the card so the room is electric. Nowhere to hide — if you aren’t switched on, you’re getting lit up. No questions asked and definitely no sorrys.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter:
No slouch on the ground and I love a good wrestling exchange or scramble — but my fight IQ is going to be the problem this fight.
How would you describe your fighting style:
Smack bang right in the middle. Love to wrestle, but I love punching people in the face just as much.
What is your favourite sport and why:
Surfing. It lets you be as creative as you can, with elements of pressure and decision-making. Translates to fighting very well.
Who is your favourite athlete:
Mick Fanning
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete:
Robert Whittaker
What are your immediate and long-term goals:
Short term: beat Mitch convincingly.
Long term: turn pro.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect:
First-round finishes.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out:
I asked for Mitch. I wanna see what the hype is about. He’s a tough cat, but I feel like I’m gonna be one step ahead the whole time.
A final message to any friends, family and supporters:
Thank you everyone who was a part of this camp — my teammates, friends, and family. It’s gonna be another night to remember.
Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you socials:
Instagram: @jaysparrowjay
Watch Jay Jay Ioane fight at Eternal MMA 98 on Saturday, September 13
