Who are your coaches: Dylan Andrews, Vincent Perry
What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist: None
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up: Rugby union/league, cricket, baseball
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession: About 4 years ago, when I started training under Dylan Andrews
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why: I enjoy wrestling because it is the hardest session of the week, but I also enjoy Saturday morning sparring
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter: My striking and movement
How would you describe your fighting style: Elusive and unorthodox
What is your favourite sport and why: Mixed Martial Arts – it teaches discipline, and once you’ve wrestled, everything else in life is easy
Who is your favourite athlete: John Daly
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete: Nate Diaz
What are your immediate and long-term goals: Just to grow as a fighter and a coach
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect: A fun fight
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out: I believe it’s going to be a fan favourite of the night
A final message to any friends, family and supporters: Thank you to my family, teammates and coaches for getting me where I am
Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you socials: Instagram: @matho_matheson
Watch Daniel Matheson fight at Eternal MMA 98on Saturday, September 13
Which gym do you train out of: Freestyle Fighting Gym
Who are your coaches: Joe Lopez & Alex Volkanovski
What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist: BJJ Black Belt
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up: Wrestling, athletics, gymnastics, rugby, cricket, soccer, rugby league, and basketball
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession: I started training in 2014, had my first fight six months later, and then went pro in 2017. I made my debut on Eternal 26 and won by submission in round 1.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why: Spyda and Meatgrinder sessions with all the killers at Freestyle! These sessions push you to the limit — a fight ain’t as hard as the work we do!
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter: My wrestling and my opportunistic ability to find a finish anywhere in the fight at any time in the fight.
How would you describe your fighting style: Relentless, calculated, and physical.
What is your favourite sport and why: MMA — because of the work that goes into it long before you see fighters under the bright lights. It’s high stakes and high risk — it’s the best sport in the world.
Who is your favourite athlete: Michael Jordan — his willingness to succeed, competitiveness, and pettiness in his pursuit of excellence set him apart.
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete: GSP — a great example of how to carry yourself as a martial artist, athlete, and man.
What are your immediate and long term goals: Win my fight against Tasar with a big finish, fight on Eternal 100, and put on another highlight performance. That’s all I’m focused on at the moment.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect: Entertainment. A kill-or-be-killed approach. High-level mixed martial arts.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out: I’m going to finish my opponent and remind everyone why I was the Eternal Champion — and remind them I never lost my belt.
A final message to any friends, family and supporters: Thank you for all the support and love — it means a lot. But most importantly: Sophia and Justus, you are my whole world and I just want to make you two proud of me.
Where will any fans or supporters be able to find your socials: Instagram: @LockjawMMA
Watch Justin Van Heerden fight at Eternal MMA 98on Saturday, September 13
Who are your coaches: Jesse Yada, Miles Muecke, and Brentin Mumford
What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist: Blue belt in Jiu Jitsu
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up: I played soccer all my life since I can remember. I also did a year of AFL and NRL.
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession: About two years ago, after my first kickboxing fight, I realised this is what I want to do.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why: Learning new skills and then putting them into practice. My favourite session is Saturday morning sparring.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter: I would say my footwork and my kicking ability—I can kick from anywhere.
How would you describe your fighting style: Tactical. I want to set up my opponents and find the right shot.
What is your favourite sport and why: Aside from MMA, football would be my favourite just because I spent so many years of my life in it.
Who is your favourite athlete: Dmitry Bivol
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete: Dmitry Bivol
What are your immediate and long term goals: My immediate goals are to gain as much competition experience as possible so that I am well prepared when I turn pro, which is my long-term goal.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect: They should expect high-intensity and tactical fighting.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out: I expect to lead the fight from start to finish and find the KO.
A final message to any friends, family and supporters: I’m extremely grateful to everyone who comes to support me every time I fight.
Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you socials: Instagram: @damelross
Watch Daniel Ross fight at Eternal MMA 98on Saturday, September 13
Who are your coaches: Miles Muecke, Jesse Yada, Brentin Mumford
What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist: White belt
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up: Rugby League & Union for 10+ years
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession: I’d say 2024, when I moved to Bangtao, was the real turning point between being a hobbyist and becoming a professional. I know I’ve had an amateur fight since then, but mentally I’ve been all-in as a pro since Bangtao. Training alongside the pros at CMBT since last November—guys like Tasar, Yusuke and the rest—has only solidified that professional mindset even more.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why: Sparring. This session allows me to flow and express myself while being tested under similar fight intensity. The feeling of accomplishment is amazing.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter: My creativity and commitment to the grind. It’s as simple as that.
How would you describe your fighting style: Aggressive yet calculated. Day by day I’m becoming more of a well-rounded Mixed Martial Heartist.
What is your favourite sport and why: Muay Thai + MMA. Since starting mixed martial arts, nothing else really interests me apart from surfing and yoga.
Who is your favourite athlete: Volk
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete: Right now, Marcio Ruffy.
What are your immediate and long term goals: I’m different to most fighters. I’m just taking it one fight at a time—using each fight camp more as a ‘becoming’ than a preparation.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect: An entertaining performance from the walkout to the post-KO celebration.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out: A professional yet patient masterclass. I will find my range then find the finish. It’s become abundantly clear that when I land, it’s lights out—so there’s no need to rush.
A final message to any friends, family and supporters: I love everyone that’s shown me support from the start of this journey until now. It hasn’t been an easy trot, but having the real ones by my side—experiencing the highs and lows—has really made a positive impact. When I’m up on that cage post-fight, I’ll be feeling your energy, whether it’s from Sydney, Phuket, or in the crowd.
Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you socials: Instagram: @zzacobrienn TikTok: @zacobrien
Watch Zac O’Brien fight at Eternal MMA 98on Saturday, September 13
Which gym do you train out of: CMBT Training Centre
Who are your coaches: Miles Muecke Brentin Mumford Jesse Yada
What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist: Purple Belt – BJJ
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up: I grew up as one of six kids on some property up in the Gold Coast hinterland, where I learned the value of hard work and perseverance. Growing up in a big family surrounded by nature and on acreage was the best place for us kids to grow up, run and play. We didn’t have much, but my parents taught us the value of making the most of what we did have. They instilled in us a strong work ethic and the understanding that nothing worth having comes easy. That mindset has carried over into everything I do — and I wouldn’t change a thing.
After chasing a soccer dream but falling short, then chasing an AFL dream only to fall short again, I found MMA. I had my first fight in 2019 and decided I was going to give this my all. Though it wasn’t easy — from working odd jobs to pay for training and food, to living and sleeping on the very mats that I trained on, and later in my career, living out of my car — my determination never wavered.
Fighting is my way of showing that no matter where you come from, or the challenges you face along the way, you can rise above, make something of yourself, and help inspire others to do the same.
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession: I was always active and had an interest in becoming a professional athlete. So whatever I did, I put my heart and soul into. When I decided AFL wasn’t the path for me, I got into MMA — and I knew from the first day that I would take it seriously and take it all the way.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why: My favourite session of the week is sparring, because I get to put together all the skills I’ve been developing throughout the week. The session allows me to be creative and fight the way I want to fight. Every sparring session is different — with different bodies, looks, and intensities. I enjoy practising being comfortable in the chaos.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter: I’m confident in all areas, and I believe my pressure, pace, and preparation will be too much. My nickname’s The Machine for a reason. Once I start, I don’t stop. I’m ready to push the pace, break my opponent, and get my hand raised inside the distance. I recently completed UFC comparison strength and conditioning testing and my results were world-class. That’s what you’re going to see come fight night.
How would you describe your fighting style: I bring intensity, chaos, and pressure that melts my opponents.
What is your favourite sport and why: MMA. It is the peak of human athleticism, intelligence, and grit. It feels primal. It’s always been a part of life, and I resonate with the life of warriors.
Who is your favourite athlete: GSP — the ultimate reference of a martial artist. Great person, intelligent, high skill level, and had the determination and discipline to do what it took to become a great champion.
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete: Same as above — GSP.
What are your immediate and long term goals: Immediate goal is to win this next fight. Then it’s straight to the Eternal Featherweight belt where I claim my rightful position as the number one featherweight in this country. Not like all of these other bums getting opportunities on the big stage by picking easy opponents — I have gone through the gauntlet to deserve my place at the top. Then, we fight to be on the biggest stage to realise my dream of becoming a UFC athlete.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect: No matter who is headlining the card, I am the people’s main event. I bring the crowd, excitement, and what it means to enjoy a fight show. I’m always going to fight for a finish and everyone knows that I leave it all in there.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out: His team already said it themselves… second round flying knee.
A final message to any friends, family and supporters: My family, friends, and supporters are everything to me — because I would truly struggle on this path without them. I not only fight for myself, continuing to prove to myself what I am capable of, but also for them. I want to inspire them as much as they inspire and motivate me. We are in this together.
Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you on socials: Instagram: @iamtasar
Watch Tasar Malone fight at Eternal MMA 98on Saturday, September 13
Where do you live: Coolangatta, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Which gym do you train out of: Unite MMA
Who are your coaches: Brad Gawthorne Tessa Gawthorne
What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist: Blue belt in BJJ
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up: Surfing
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession: In 2023, I had my first amateur MMA fight.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why: Favourite aspect of training is how it makes you feel afterwards. Doesn’t matter if you’ve had a bad day — every session on the mats makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter: My will to keep moving forward and never give up.
How would you describe your fighting style: A pressure fighter, constantly moving forward and putting pressure on my opponent.
What is your favourite sport and why: MMA — I love the variety in it. There’s so much to learn and everyone does something a little bit different. I love how everyone has their own style. Every day there’s something to improve on. It’s a very addicting sport.
Who is your favourite athlete: Mike Tyson
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete: Alexander Volkanovski
What are your immediate and long-term goals: To get one more fight in by the end of the year and fight 2–3 times next year.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect: Non-stop action.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out: Constant pressure and overwhelming my opponent.
A final message to any friends, family and supporters: Thank you for supporting me — I hope you enjoy the show.
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 league and BJJ
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession: I started to take MMA seriously when I finished high school so I could focus on MMA full time.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why: Favourite aspect of training is wrestling — it really forces you to push hard. Favourite session of the week is Saturday morning sparring; I get to mix everything together and practice what I’ve learnt.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter: My BJJ experience and consistency.
How would you describe your fighting style: A mix of everything.
What is your favourite sport and why: MMA — because it’s a solo sport and it’s the greatest sport on earth.
Who is your favourite athlete: Georges St-Pierre
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete: Ilia Topuria
What are your immediate and long term goals: My immediate goal is to win my MMA fight on September 13. My long-term goal is to be UFC champion one day.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect: A dominant performance.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out: 1st or 2nd round finish in my favour.
A final message to any friends, family and supporters: Thank you to everyone who supports me — I’m just getting started.
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 98on Saturday, September 13
What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist: Black belt in BJJ, Black belt in Taekwondo
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up: Soccer, Karate
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession: I did a few kickboxing fights between 2012–2014, then got offered an MMA fight while training BJJ.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why: MMA sparring — I love punching people.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter: Confident and aggressive. I love violence.
How would you describe your fighting style: Street fighter
What is your favourite sport and why: Hunting — I like the skill and being outdoors.
Who is your favourite athlete: Don’t really have one.
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete: All the fighters in the PRIDE & K-1 GP days.
What are your immediate and long-term goals: Take out all the major Australian welterweight titles and fight in the USA.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect: Violence.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out: I see my opponent being very keen to take it to the ground, like most of his fights. I can see myself getting the finish as he gets desperate to avoid keeping it standing.
A final message to any friends, family and supporters: Love my people — makes this journey that much more enjoyable with them along for the ride.
Which gym do you train out of: Team Compton Training Centre
Who are your coaches: Ryan Doyle & Steve Compton
What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist: BJJ Black Belt – 1st degree
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up: All of them — footy, cricket, rugby, basketball and athletics (track & field)
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession: Started as a hobby in 2011, turned pro in 2018.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why: Sparring, of course. Nothing quite like punching someone in the face — and vice versa.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter: My ability to bounce back from adversity — you could say I’m hard-headed, haha.
How would you describe your fighting style: Annoying pressure. I walk my opponents down — it’s suffocating for them.
What is your favourite sport and why: MMA, of course. It’s what I’m good at — or so people say.
Who is your favourite athlete: GSP
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete: GSP & Volk
What are your immediate and long term goals: Immediate goal is always the opponent in front of me. Long term — to become the best undisputed fighter in Australia & New Zealand, and earn myself a contract on the world stage.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect: Excitement — and lots of smiles. I absolutely love what I do, so it’s impossible for me not to smile. Fans can expect to see me bring something new every time I step in the cage, plus the usual suffocating pressure.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out: I never predict the outcome of my fights, but my pressure is a nightmare to deal with. I always look to take my opponents into deep water — and if an opportunity arises, finish them.
A final message to any friends, family and supporters: Thank you to my wife, family, friends, coaches, teammates and sponsors. Thank you to the fans that always show up.
