Who are your coaches? Simon Carson and Raja Shippen.
What belts or rankings do you currently hold as a martial artist? Blue Belt in BJJ.
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up? Rugby League and Rugby Union.
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession? Seven years ago.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why? MMA sparring — I enjoy blending all the elements of MMA together.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter? Big power and aggression.
How would you describe your fighting style? Freestyle.
What is your favourite sport and why? MMA — it’s the best sport in the world. There are so many ways to win, and it takes a unique combination of mental and physical attributes to succeed.
Who is your favourite athlete? Muhammad Ali.
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete? Muhammad Ali.
What are your immediate and long-term goals? Immediate: Focus on and win my upcoming fight. Long-term: Beat everybody up.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect? Fireworks — big bombs being thrown, no handbrakes, and complete disregard for my own health and safety to get the win and put on a show for the fans.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out? I’m going to dominate all aspects of the fight and get the finish.
A final message to any friends, family, and supporters: Thank you all for the support.
Where can fans and supporters find you on social media? Instagram: @youngblackandsexy
Watch Adnan Larry fight at Eternal MMA 95 on Saturday, May 3.
Who are your coaches? Connor and Paul Birch (head coaches), Gabriel Schlupp (grappling coach), Shaun Kober (strength and conditioning coach).
What belts or rankings do you currently hold as a martial artist? Purple Belt in Jiu Jitsu.
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up? I was an avid cricketer — I used to open the bowling and was a leading wicket taker. I also played AFL, but all of that went away when I fell in love with MMA at 17.
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession? I started in 2018 with my best mate Ryan Leavey at Tribal MMA. From 2018 to 2021, it was more of a hobby — I had a couple of fights but treated it like playing a sport, not the true grind it really is.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why? Honestly, all of them. Every day is my favourite. I focus on sharpening all aspects to make sure I’m fully prepared.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter? My cardio. I believe I have an unbelievably good gas tank and can go all day.
How would you describe your fighting style? My style has become much more well-rounded recently. In my earlier days, I was definitely more of a grappler — they even gave me the nickname “The Backpack” at the gym.
What is your favourite sport and why? MMA — it’s by far the greatest sport of all. No explanation needed.
Who is your favourite athlete? Antoine Griezmann, Atlético Madrid striker. He’s the GOAT.
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete? Conor McGregor — it might be a little controversial now, but he shaped the sport into what it is today. When he was on his incredible run, you couldn’t help but be inspired.
What are your immediate and long-term goals? Immediate: Get through Jesse and make my mark on the flyweight division. Long-term: Take the Eternal flyweight title and move onto the world stage.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect? An exciting fight with all parts of MMA mixed in. I always bring a crowd and put on a high-level show.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out? I see a high-level, high-intensity fight with plenty of grappling exchanges swinging in my favour — and something sneaky sneaky to end it.
A final message to any friends, family, and supporters: A massive thank you to all my friends, family, and supporters who have backed me all the way to my pro debut. We can’t do any of this without our support systems. Huge thanks to my team for always preparing me, and a special shoutout to my girlfriend Mya — the most supportive and caring girlfriend I could ask for.
Where can fans and supporters find you on social media? Instagram: @mitchmclaren23
Watch Mitch Mclaren fight at Eternal MMA 95 on Saturday, May 3.
What belts or rankings do you currently hold as a martial artist? BJJ Purple Belt.
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up? I grew up playing footy — from Auskick through to WAFL — but eventually lost the passion for the game.
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession? After my first fight, it sparked the same passion I used to feel for footy. The love and competitiveness drove me to take the sport more seriously.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why? Jiu Jitsu will always be my favourite session — it was the first martial art I ever started with.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter? In footy, I was never the fastest, strongest, or most talented player on the field — and I think that rings true in MMA as well. But I make up for it with my ability to learn, adapt, and keep improving — whether it’s in the training room or in the cage.
How would you describe your fighting style? Versatile and crafty.
What is your favourite sport and why? MMA — I’m a nerd for the sport and love watching high-level skills being implemented in a constantly evolving game.
Who is your favourite athlete? Corey Sandhagen or Alexander Volkanovski.
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete? Corey Sandhagen and Alexander Volkanovski — tied for first.
What are your immediate and long-term goals? To fight the best flyweights in Australia, and then compete abroad at the highest level.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect? High pace and technical fighting.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out? I feel it’ll be a high-paced, technical fight. I respect Mitch’s skill set, but I believe I’ve got the tools to get the job done.
A final message to any friends, family, and supporters: Thanks to my team at Wolves Den, my partner Wendy for putting up with me, and all my family and friends — I love and appreciate you all. I’ll try my best to do you proud.
Where can fans and supporters find you on social media? Instagram: @jesse.wynne18
Watch Jesse Wynne fight at Eternal MMA 95 on Saturday, May 3.
Who are your coaches? Steve Compton, Jayden Binnie, Dom Mar Fan.
What belts or rankings do you currently hold as a martial artist? Blue Belt.
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up? Rugby league and rugby union.
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession? The first day I walked into the gym at 14, I knew this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why? 8oz sparring — that’s where I grow the most.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter? My explosive ability, which I use for double legs, and my ability to dictate whether the fight stays standing or goes to the ground.
How would you describe your fighting style? I’m like a backpack that can’t be taken off.
What is your favourite sport and why? MMA, of course — it’s a solo sport. If you lose, that’s on you.
Who is your favourite athlete? Ilia Topuria.
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete? Jean Silva.
What are your immediate and long-term goals? I want to have a couple more fights, then turn pro by the end of the year.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect? They should expect not to see the judges — it’s not going the distance.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out? Round 2 submission.
A final message to any friends, family, and supporters: The result has already been decided — just have faith.
Where can fans and supporters find you on social media? Instagram: @aidyngouldmma
Which gym do you train out of? Gamebred Academy and Ignite Martial Arts.
Who are your coaches? Jason Lonergan, Ryan Dunstan, Jake Lund.
What belts or rankings do you currently hold as a martial artist?
Purple Belt in BJJ
Master of Martial Arts Black Belt (being a Sick C**t)
Three division MMA champion
Lockdown Light Heavyweight Champion
Lockdown Heavyweight Champion
Ranked #6 in the IMMAF World Rankings
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up? I played rugby league growing up.
Best Defensive Player (Under 9’s)
Best Forward of the Year (Under 10, 11, 12, and 13) — Forest Lake Magpies, lessgoo.
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession? My first day of training was October 2014. I took a break, then came back in February 2015 and trained every day. I fought twice that year and didn’t do well, but trained hard all through 2016.
Still lost fights until 2017, when my little brother Jake passed away. I took 2017 off, then came back stronger in 2018 and trained harder than ever. I went on a four-fight win streak, competed in IMMAF, won multiple titles, and was meant to turn pro two years ago — but injuries set me back.
Short answer: I’ve been taking this seriously since 2018, but started training in 2014.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why? Being fit as f**k and pushing my limits. Plus, the harder I train, the more I get to eat. I love living life my way — doing what I want, when I want.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter? I’m extremely physical, fast, and explosive — it’s in the Filimoehala bloodline. We’re warriors from Tonga. My eyes and reaction timing are elite. Also, I’m a sick c**t grappler — a full-on wizard with wrestling.
How would you describe your fighting style? Way too strong and too fast for anyone in my division. I’m very well-rounded, extremely aggressive, and can dominate anywhere, anytime.
What is your favourite sport and why? MMA — it’s real-life warrior stuff. Fighting is one of the most important skills anyone can have, and it’s cool as hell to know who the best in the world is. Rugby league was my favourite sport to play growing up, but I don’t really enjoy watching it now.
Who is your favourite athlete? Conor McGregor, Greg Inglis, Brock Lesnar, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Joe Ofahengaue.
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete? Conor McGregor, Brock Lesnar, Cain Velasquez, Mike Tyson, Jon Jones, Francis Ngannou, Muhammad Mokaev.
What are your immediate and long-term goals?
Immediate: Smash all these f**kwits in my division and become Eternal Champion.
Long-term: Become the first Tongan UFC athlete. Become UFC Welterweight Champion and Middleweight Champion. Become a millionaire… then a billionaire.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect? Expect me to go crazy and crash out. I’m a high-level athlete with high-level skills, but I don’t think like these other fighters. To me, it’s life or death — I ain’t f**king around.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out? I’m going first. I’ll either punch the f**k out of him or rip his head off. I can win in 10 different ways — and it’ll be one of those 10 ways.
A final message to any friends, family, and supporters: If you don’t come to my fight, you fake as f**k. Nah, just kidding — love you all. ❤️
Where can fans and supporters find you on social media? Instagram: @lontonomo
Watch Loni Filimoehala fight at Eternal MMA 95 on Saturday, May 3.
An ANZAC Day Feature on Resilience, Community, and Combat Sports
For many who have served in Australia’s Armed Forces, the end of military life marks the beginning of a much quieter—and often more difficult—battle. The transition back to civilian life can feel disorienting, lonely, and overwhelming. Veterans MMA, a community-led initiative founded by former servicemen Ash Pendergast and James Osbourne, is proving that sometimes the best way forward is through the familiar intensity of combat sports.
Veterans MMA is a combat-based program on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia, offering free weekly training in disciplines like Boxing, Muaythai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Freestyle Wrestling. But beyond the punches and rolls, it’s about something much deeper: rebuilding identity, reconnecting with purpose, and restoring a sense of belonging.
A Different Kind of Recovery
While clinical and mindfulness-based treatments can be effective for some, the one-size-fits-all approach often leaves others behind—particularly veterans who thrive on challenge, structure, and adrenaline. Veterans MMA offers a powerful alternative: a space where mental and physical strength are forged together, in the company of those who understand.
“When I was discharged, I found it difficult to transition back into mainstream society; I was desensitised to it, isolated, and alone.”
This sentiment is echoed by many. The loss of camaraderie, the lack of a mission, and the alienation from civilian life can feel impossible to overcome. That’s why Veterans MMA was created not as a therapy session, but as a sanctuary—a place where veterans can train, connect, and feel understood without judgment or formality.
Whether it’s a full-contact sparring session or simply sitting on the mats sharing a coffee, everyone is welcome. Some are chasing fitness goals. Others just need to feel connected again. And for all, it’s about finding a new kind of strength—on their own terms.
From Fighter to Facilitator: Ash’s Story
Ash Pendergast, a combat veteran and co-founder of Veterans MMA, knows firsthand how transformative the program can be—because he lived it.
“After service, I felt like a shadow of the man I once was,” he recalls. “A veteran mate dragged me to a martial arts class, and after one session, I felt so good I had to come back. Six months later, I was a new person.”
That journey culminated in a final fight at Eternal 74—where Ash faced fellow veteran Cole Smith. For Ash, it was a chance to go out on his terms, sharing the cage with someone who understood the experience both inside and outside of combat.
“I gave everything to that camp to go out with a bang,” he says. “To fight another veteran, toe-to-toe, for a cause like this—it was a dream way to retire. Eternal was the perfect place to hang up my gloves.”
The impact on his fellow veterans was immediate. More participants began setting goals—some eyeing amateur fights, others simply engaging more in training and social connection.
“Even those who don’t want to compete get fired up when one of us is in camp. It tightens the bond across the whole community.”
A Fellow Warrior in the Cage: Cole Smith
Ash’s opponent that night, Cole Te Tuhi Puru Smith, is a fellow veteran and owner of Heartbreak Conditioning on the Gold Coast. Cole served with the 2/1 Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry from 1999 to 2003. His return to competition wasn’t just about sport—it was a personal triumph.
After suffering two life-threatening strokes, undergoing heart surgery, and being told by doctors he would never compete again, Cole defied the odds just by stepping into the cage. The mental and physical hurdles were immense, and yet, for Cole, fighting MMA again “meant everything.”
Facing Ash made the moment even more significant.
“It felt fitting to return against another infantryman,” Cole said. “Ash was a strong, resilient, experienced fighter—a soldier through and through—and a solid human. It was a war, and I’m proud to have shared that moment with him.”
Cole also praised the Veterans MMA program, calling it “an amazing initiative” that brings purpose, mental balance, and camaraderie back into the lives of those who’ve served.
“It takes a good heart to do something like that for our veterans. Martial arts gives you a way to direct your energy positively—and that’s something we all need post-military.”
Regardless of the result, two veterans went to war—and had the entire crowd on their feet, cheering them on for the battle it truly was.
Coaching With Purpose: Jordan’s Perspective
For coach and athlete Jordan Southern, Veterans MMA has transformed not only the people he works with, but his own reasons for stepping into the cage.
“Preparing for fights while being a coach is awesome—the guys really rally behind me,” Jordan says. “That pressure? I welcome it. It motivates me.”
Each fight camp becomes a team effort. Veterans lend support, energy, and encouragement—eager to help however they can. And the effect is mutual.
“Winning always feels good for half a day,” he jokes, “then it’s back to reality. But I’m lucky that reality is coaching and training—so I’m always winning.”
Jordan’s deeper motivation, however, lies in what the fight represents.
“Since becoming a coach for Veterans MMA, my reason for fighting has changed. I fight for something bigger than myself now. Our veterans have fought for all of us—the least I can do is return the favour.”
Coaching with Perspective: Rob Giuffrida
As Head Coach and Course Director at Veterans MMA, Rob Giuffrida has found deep purpose in working with those who’ve served. While the role comes with challenges, it’s one he describes as the most meaningful of his career—supporting a group of individuals who arrive not just with physical toughness, but with discipline, humility, and a raw honesty shaped by service.
Rob worked closely with Ash Pendergast in the lead-up to his final fight, helping him prepare both physically and mentally for what was to come. Despite Ash carrying serious injuries and heavy expectations, Rob witnessed a level of dedication that set the tone for the entire gym.
“He carried the team on his back with a smile the whole way,” Rob says. “That fight gave the boys belief—it’s still talked about in the gym.”
As a coach, Rob sees how the veterans look out for one another. In his words:
“When you train for yourself, one person gets better. When you train for your partner, the whole team rises.”
Building a Legacy of Support
Veterans MMA isn’t just a gym program—it’s a growing network of support, healing, and shared understanding. The long-term vision is to expand into more camps, competitions, and community-led events—all guided by the feedback of the veterans themselves.
The program is already helping reduce symptoms of isolation, depression, and PTSD—simply by giving veterans a place to belong, to be challenged, and to be seen.
“We’re not here to hand out participation certificates,” Ash says. “We’re here to build a culture of discipline, courage, and integrity—the same values we carried in uniform.”
On this ANZAC Day, as we honour the service and sacrifice of Australia’s defence personnel, we also shine a light on what comes after—and those doing the work to ensure that no veteran is left to fight their battles alone.
Who are your coaches? Ryan Gray, Ben Vickers, Will Zwaan.
What belts or rankings do you currently hold as a martial artist? Blue Belt in BJJ.
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up? Tennis, then started MMA.
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession? The day I walked out of Scrappy after my first session — I knew I wanted to become a professional MMA fighter.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why? Everything. I love the entire process.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter? My mindset, cardio, strength, and ability to absorb information.
How would you describe your fighting style? Mixed martial arts — I aim to be well-rounded in all areas.
What is your favourite sport and why? MMA — nothing else compares.
Who is your favourite athlete? Marab Dvalishvili.
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete? Sharra Bullet.
What are your immediate and long-term goals? Become Eternal featherweight champion, defend it a few times, then smash a fool on Dana White’s Contender Series.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect? That in five years, when I’m on the big stage, they’ll be able to say, “Yeah, I watched him back in the day when he was amateur.”
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out? My hand getting raised.
A final message to any friends, family, and supporters: Enjoy the show.
Where can fans and supporters find you on social media? Instagram: @josephbirdmma
What belts or rankings do you currently hold as a martial artist? Technically still a white belt, but I compete at blue belt level and above.
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up? I did karate for a little while when I was younger and started training kickboxing at 14.
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession? I took MMA seriously before I even started training it. I moved out of home — and out of the country — at 16 to pursue it. Up until then, I had only trained kickboxing.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why? Sparring — so I can punch Shai Krimotat in the head.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter? Even when things aren’t going well, I stay composed and find a way out. I don’t get overwhelmed, and I don’t get too excited when things are going my way either.
How would you describe your fighting style? Bull in a china shop.
What is your favourite sport and why? K-1 kickboxing — I love the exchanges and the combinations.
Who is your favourite athlete? I wouldn’t say I have one favourite athlete.
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete? There are a lot of guys I look up to and try to learn from — Max Holloway and Alexander Volkanovski are two of the main ones.
What are your immediate and long-term goals? Immediate: win this fight and move on to the pro ranks. Long-term: reach my full potential in this sport and become the best fighter I can be — wherever that takes me.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect? A cracker of a fight.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out? A cracker of a fight.
A final message to any friends, family, and supporters: I’m in a place now where I’m truly grateful for the people around me. The support from my gym and everyone who helps me means so much — I feel it every step of the way.
Where can fans and supporters find you on social media? Instagram: @perry.jamesprivate
Which gym do you train out of? Team Compton and OASIS Fight Academy.
Who are your coaches? Steve Compton.
What belts or rankings do you currently hold as a martial artist? Brown Belt in BJJ.
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up? Rugby.
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession? I took it seriously from my first amateur fight, but I realised I could really make a run at it after my first fight at middleweight.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why? MMA sparring — it’s the closest you can get to replicating a real fight.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter? I’m very coachable, I fight with aggression, and I carry real power.
How would you describe your fighting style? Aggressive.
What is your favourite sport and why? MMA — because a fight can be won or lost at any second, in so many different ways.
Who is your favourite athlete? Right now, Alex Pereira (Poatan).
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete? Poatan.
What are your immediate and long-term goals? Immediate goal: get my hand raised in this fight. Long-term goal: build my gym, OASIS Fight Academy.
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? Sebastian has a good chin, judging from his past fights, so I expect to rock him and finish him with ground and pound.
A final message to any friends, family, and supporters: Massive shoutout to my teams — Team Compton and OASIS. And big thanks to my sponsors for this fight: GAIA Hire, Ocean Ink, Barfoot Plumbing, and Regulate Nutrition.
