What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist:
Northern Irish champion Irish champion Bamma British champion Purple belt bjj
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up:
Tried my hand in soccer , rugby , tae kwon do , boxing and mma
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession:
16 years old I transitioned from boxing to mma. At 18 I turned pro after 17 amateur fights in 2 years , captured Irish title and was selected to represent Ireland to fight team USA in Chicago
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why:
The sessions depend on what I’m feeling. At the moment pad work with coach Johnny and Luke’s Tuesday and thursday mma classes . Working on weaknesses and getting better is the main thing
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter:
Counter punching and fight iq most of the time . Not scared to take risks
How would you describe your fighting style:
Crafty , Confident , exciting , no fear , inspiring to younger generation , alway up for the fight
What is your favourite sport and why:
MMA , because it’s my life
Who is your favourite athlete:
This varies each week depending on my mood haha
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete:
Terrance Crawford would be top of the list
What are your immediate and long term goals:
To get as much experience and as far as I can go so I can help my future fighters and students not make the mistakes I did . Open my own gym
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect:
Fun, fast , exciting , clinical performance
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out:
I see me feeling it out to start and when I settle dominate and finish fast
A final message to any friends, family and supporters:
The support and backing I receive is really uplifting and keeps me going. Having others support and believe in me makes me want to succeed for them as much as me
Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you socials:
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 doing athletics. Moved to soccer then eventually found MMA
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession:
I started MMA in 2016, trained for a year or so then i had 4 years away as i went to university and worked full time in construction management. I’ve been on and off since then. But recently i have quit my job and am focusing on training and competing full time.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why:
Sparring days of course. Nothing compares to having an all out war with a juiced 40 year old accountant who just lost his kids/house in a divorce settlement every Tuesday night
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter:
I can find a finish no matter the position
How would you describe your fighting style:
All rounder
What is your favourite sport and why:
MMA – i find every other sport boring and ghey
Who is your favourite athlete:
Jon Jones
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete:
Jon Jones
What are your immediate and long term goals:
I want to be active, 3-5 fights this year and eventually make the big leagues by the end of the year / early next.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect:
Just a kid whos down for a scrap
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out:
Christian is a great striker, fun to watch too. Honestly I don’t like to predict results of fights but I know for sure I will hit him harder than anyone he has faced before and I’m capable of mixing it up and confident wherever the fight goes.
A final message to any friends, family and supporters:
Enjoy the show
Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you socials:
Eternal MMA continued to assert its dominance as the premier Australian combat sports organisation in 2024, delivering a year marked by unprecedented growth, strategic expansion, and unparalleled industry leadership. Through an unrivalled strength of schedule, industry-leading production, and exceptional matchmaking, we have solidified our position as the definitive leader in Australia’s combat sports scene.
2024 saw Eternal MMA’s profile grow significantly both at home and abroad. We increased our live gate attendance, achieving new records for both individual event attendance and annual totals. Eternal events have become major calendar highlights, with fan demand for our shows continuing to surge. In line with this growth, our commercial partnerships expanded, not just in volume, but also in value, underlining the immense confidence the industry places in our brand.
We also successfully integrated Sydney, NSW, into our regular event calendar, joining Gold Coast and Perth as permanent fixtures on the Eternal MMA schedule. Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited to announce plans to add one more Australian city to our roster, further increasing our national footprint.
Leading the Region
Eternal MMA is the only Australian MMA promotion operating as a fully structured sports organisation. This distinction sets us apart from competitors and reaffirms our position as the clear market leader across all key metrics, including live event broadcast distribution, on-demand original content, strength of schedule, event attendance, and social media engagement. Our unrivalled ability to consistently deliver exceptional events, combined with cutting-edge production, continues to elevate the sport in Australia and beyond.
Our commitment to engaging with fans in innovative ways has paid off, with notable growth in our social media presence. Eternal MMA’s YouTube channel has become the most followed and viewed combat sports channel in Australia and New Zealand, boasting over 15 million total views and averaging more than 150,000 unique views per month. This engagement highlights our ability to reach a global audience, and positions us as a key player in the world of combat sports content distribution.
Expanding National & International Footprints
The demand for live sports, particularly in combat disciplines, is at an all-time high. Eternal MMA is primed to meet this demand with a clear strategy for both national expansion and increased international visibility. The last 24 months have seen us develop a global viewership base, strengthen relationships with international fighters, teams, and managers, and create some of the most competitive and entertaining matchups in the sport. This international reach allows us to showcase not only Australian athletes to the world, but also bring top-tier international talent to Australian audiences, providing a truly global experience.
Unrivalled Athlete Promotion & Brand Building
Eternal MMA has built a reputation as the region’s leader in athlete promotion and brand building. Our alumni continue to excel on the world stage, with a remarkable 27-5 UFC record that underscores the quality of fighters we nurture and promote. This success reflects our commitment to creating career-defining opportunities for our athletes while also strengthening our brand as a beacon for talent and opportunity.
Quote from Cam O’Neill, Managing Director & Founder of Eternal MMA “As we leave another year in the rearview mirror, it’s very satisfying to look back on some great moments from 2024. We continued to showcase the region’s best athletes and put on some amazing fights, our digital team helped take our live broadcast experience to another level, and our alumni continue to make positive noise at the highest level, performing in the UFC Octagon. Moving forward, we will double down on our quest for continuous improvement, national and international expansion, while helping our athletes become household names and achieve their dreams.”
Quote from Ben Vickers, Executive Director of Eternal MMA “2024 was another epic year for Eternal, we saw the instant classic of Webb Vs Kophamel at a packed HBF Stadium ahead of UFC 305, over 3,000 screaming Australian MMA fans on their feet throughout as we witnessed a record breaking number of strikes being thrown and neither fighter taking a backward step. This is what makes Eternal the best, the quality of fight centre cage. In 2024 we did that every time we set up the venue, the stands were packed with Australian MMA fans and we blew them away with our fights and production, in 2025 we will do it again, more often and bigger! “
Conclusion
2024 was an extraordinary year for Eternal MMA. We have proven time and again that our strength lies not only in the calibre of our athletes and the quality of our events but also in our ability to adapt and innovate in an ever-evolving market. As we continue to build on this momentum, the future is bright, and Eternal MMA is poised to redefine the landscape of combat sports in Australia and around the world.
Eternal MMA isn’t just an event; it’s the beating heart of Australian mixed martial arts. As the nation’s leading MMA organisation, Eternal MMA has become a showcase for incredible talent, electrifying fights, and the rising stars who are making Australia a powerhouse on the global MMA stage.
For fans of high-octane combat sports, Eternal MMA’s YouTube channel is your front-row seat to all the action. With over 1,700 videos, it’s a treasure trove of top-tier fights, in-depth athlete profiles, expert fight breakdowns, and our highly acclaimed “Laid Bare” series. This is where fans and aspiring fighters alike can immerse themselves in the stories, skills, and spectacular moments that define Australian MMA.
The rise of Australian MMA is undeniable, and Eternal MMA is leading the charge. By highlighting local talent and delivering world-class events, we’re showing the world what our fighters are made of. From seasoned champions to the next generation of contenders, Eternal MMA is where Australian combat sports shine the brightest.
But the journey doesn’t stop there. Eternal MMA is constantly innovating and bringing fans exclusive programming that takes the sport to new heights. Don’t miss a moment of the action—subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on notifications to stay ahead of the game.
Join us as we continue to elevate Australian MMA and inspire fans worldwide. The future of combat sports is here, and it’s Eternal MMA.
Get a sneak peek at what’s coming next in Australian combat sports—Eternal MMA is bringing you exclusive programming never seen before. Be the first to catch all the action by subscribing and turning on notifications.
RAPID FIRE SERIES Every Tuesday – 8PM AEST Rapid Fire puts fighters and coaches on the spot with quick, sharp questions that test their wit and IQ. Think fast—watch now!
HOT WINGS CHALLENGE! Every Wednesday – 8PM AEST Eternal Flame turns up the heat as guests tackle trivia and banter—loser takes a bite of insanely hot wings. Can they handle the fire?
INSIDERS PODCOAST Every Thursday – 8PM AEST The Eternal Insiders podcast drops every Thursday, hosted by Luke Trahair. Join him for interviews with fighters, champions, veterans, and special guests. Stay in the loop on all things Eternal and Aussie MMA—tune in now!
FREE ETERNAL FIGHTS Regular Upload Classics, future Hall of Famers, knockouts, submissions—every fight from Eternal MMA 1 is uploaded for your viewing pleasure!
As the year draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on an incredible 2024 season of Eternal MMA. From unforgettable fights to standout performances, this year has delivered moments that will be etched into MMA history. Our annual awards celebrate the fighters, their achievements, and the stories that captivated fans across Australia and beyond. Here are the highlights from a year of excellence inside the Eternal cage.
FIGHT OF THE YEAR 2024 🏆
Kevin Kophamel VS Harry Webb – Eternal 87
A fight for the ages! With a whirlwind of drama behind the scenes leading up to this fight, Kevin Kophamel and Harry Webb delivered an unforgettable battle at Eternal 87 that had the HBF Stadium crowd on their feet. After five gruelling rounds, Harry Webb claimed the vacant lightweight title, but both fighters earned the respect and admiration of fans worldwide.
KNOCKOUT OF THE YEAR 🏆
Khan Deatta – Eternal 82
In just the fourth minute of the first round, Khan Deatta unleashed a devastating elbow that left Jong Hwan Lee out cold. This highlight-reel finish kicked off Khan’s incredible 2024 season, which saw him rack up three consecutive KO/TKO wins. A pure display of power and precision!
SUBMISSION OF THE YEAR 🏆
Luke Dally – Eternal 84
With a twister submission against Sydney West’s Jordan Thomas in the second round, Luke Dally showcased his creativity and skill at Eternal 84. Proving why he’s a top contender in the lightweight division, “The Diamond” shined bright with this unforgettable finish.
COMEBACK OF THE YEAR 🏆
Joseph Larcinese – Eternal 86
Behind on the scorecards and battered from three rounds of war, Joseph Larcinese refused to quit. With just 21 seconds left in the fight, he secured a dramatic rear-naked choke victory over Oden Muscat. A heart-stopping comeback for the undefeated flyweight in 2024!
BREAKTHROUGH FIGHTER 2024 🏆
Yusuke Sato – Lightweight
From his last amateur fight to a viral knee KO highlight featured on UFC Fight Pass, Yusuke Sato made waves in 2024. Representing Japan via Gold Coast, Australia, Sato’s clean finishes and magnetic charisma have cemented his status as Eternal MMA’s Breakthrough Fighter of 2024. A budding superstar in the making!
FIGHTER OF THE YEAR 🏆
Connor Birch – Bantamweight
After a three-year hiatus from MMA following his last amateur fight, Connor Birch made a thunderous entry into the professional ranks with Eternal MMA in 2024. Competing in the bantamweight division, “The Highlander” delivered two spectacular first-round knockouts. At Eternal 87, he stopped Lucas Grasseli in dominant fashion, and at Eternal 91, he landed a jaw-dropping walk-off KO in just 52 seconds. Spending only 4 minutes and 37 seconds inside the cage across both fights, Connor Birch’s dominance has earned him the title of Eternal MMA’s Fighter of the Year!
The 2024 Eternal MMA Awards shine a spotlight on the athletes who left it all in the cage, showcasing their skill, heart, and determination. As we look ahead to another action-packed year, we celebrate the legacy of these incredible moments and the fighters who made them possible. Here’s to a phenomenal 2025 season – we can’t wait to see what’s next!
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has seen a significant surge in global talent over the years, and one of the most exciting developments is the resurgence of Asian fighters on the international stage. Eternal MMA, Australia’s leading mixed martial arts organisation, has become a pivotal platform for Asian athletes to showcase their skills, gain invaluable experience, and build the credibility needed to secure opportunities such as the Road to UFC—a direct pathway to earning contracts with the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Through its partnership with UFC Fight Pass, the world’s largest fight streaming platform, Eternal MMA has amplified its reach, bridging the gap between Australian MMA, Asia, and global audiences. Among the standout athletes contributing to this resurgence are two Japanese champions, Bantamweight Kuya Ito and Flyweight Takeshi Taniguchi, who embody the high-level talent emerging from Japan’s rich martial arts culture.
Kuya Ito: The Relentless Bantamweight Champion
Kuya Ito, Eternal MMA’s Bantamweight Champion, represents the epitome of resilience and dedication. With a professional record of 16 wins, 8 losses, and 1 no contest, the 28-year-old fighter from Nagano, Japan, has built his reputation on grit and determination. Known for his grinding style and ability to go the distance—evidenced by 13 decision victories—Ito’s career trajectory has been remarkable.
Starting his journey in karate as a child, he made his MMA debut at just 18 years old at ZST 35 in 2013. After three years of balancing work and training, Ito made the bold decision to quit his job and relocate to Tokyo to pursue MMA full-time under the guidance of his coach, former wrestling Olympian Kazuyuki Miyata, at Brave gym.
Before claiming Eternal MMA gold, Ito held the Grachan Bantamweight title in Japan. Now on a three-fight win streak, he has not only represented the Eternal belt but also secured a championship bout back in Grachan, presenting him the unique opportunity to regain his former title in Japan. This dual representation of Eternal MMA and Japanese promotions underscores the symbiotic relationship between the two regions in nurturing top-tier talent.
Takeshi Taniguchi: The Energized Flyweight Champion
At just 26 years old, Takeshi Taniguchi has made an indelible mark as Eternal MMA’s Flyweight Champion. Hailing from Kobe, Japan, Taniguchi boasts a professional record of five wins and one loss. Training out of Shooto Gym Kobe and CMBT Training Centre in Australia, his journey to championship glory has been nothing short of inspiring.
Taniguchi was relatively late to MMA, beginning his training at 20. His hard work and infectious energy quickly set him apart. After a three-fight win streak, he seized the underdog opportunity of a lifetime to challenge then-champion Frank Jankowski from Perth, Australia. Training at CMBT on the Gold Coast leading up to the fight, Taniguchi delivered a stellar performance, claiming the title after five grueling rounds. His dynamic personality and technical prowess make him a fighter to watch on the international stage.
A Rising Superstar: Yusuke Sato
Born in Kumamoto, Japan, 25-year-old Yusuke Sato now resides on the Gold Coast. With a magnetic personality that draws the crowd, Sato made a huge statement in his professional debut with a first-round knockout at Eternal 90—a highlight that has garnered over 200,000 views on social media. Still a student studying in Australia, Sato is on a meteoric rise. Riding the wave of increased interest in MMA, he has the potential to become the next superstar, further strengthening the bond between Japanese talent and Eternal MMA.
A teammate of flyweight champion Takeshi Taniguchi, CMBT Training Centre’s Yusuke Sato wins in front of crowd on the Gold Coast, at Eternal 90.
Eternal MMA: A Crucial Platform for Asian Fighters
Eternal MMA’s commitment to fostering talent extends beyond Australia’s borders. By providing a competitive platform for Asian fighters, Eternal has enabled them to gain exposure to Western audiences and prove their mettle against world-class opponents. This exposure is invaluable for fighters aiming to make a name for themselves internationally.
Notable matchups, such as Jack Becker VS Koshi Matsumoto and Khan Deatta VS Jong Hwan Lee, further highlight the synergy between Eternal MMA and Asia’s vibrant MMA scene. These bouts not only showcase the high-level competition but also contribute to the growth of MMA as a global sport.
With its UFC Fight Pass partnership, Eternal MMA ensures that its athletes gain visibility on the most prominent fight streaming platform, bringing them one step closer to opportunities like the Road to UFC. This partnership not only elevates individual fighters but also strengthens the ties between Australian and Asian MMA communities.
The Future of Asian MMA Talent on the Global Stage
The success of fighters like Kuya Ito, Takeshi Taniguchi, and Yusuke Sato illustrates the potential of Asian athletes in the world of MMA. Eternal MMA’s role in this resurgence is significant. By offering a stage for these fighters to shine and facilitating their journey toward global recognition, Eternal MMA is cementing its position as a vital bridge between Asia, Australia, and the broader MMA world.
As more talent emerges from regions like Japan, the collaboration between Eternal MMA and UFC Fight Pass will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of MMA, ensuring that the world witnesses the best that Asian fighters have to offer.
You can rewatch Eternal MMA events on UFC Fight Pass, the premier platform for fight fans worldwide.
Australia’s leading MMA organisation, Eternal MMA, joined forces with Proper No. Twelve to deliver an unforgettable experience for one lucky fan, celebrating their partnership with an all-expenses-paid trip to the Gold Coast. This double-header weekend on November 29 and 30 showcased the best of MMA while highlighting the synergy between these two iconic brands.
The campaign kicked off with a nationwide competition, culminating in Blake P. from Adelaide, South Australia, being announced as the winner on November 18. The prize package included flights, accommodation, transportation, exclusive merchandise, and VIP access to Eternal MMA’s action-packed events.
Reflecting on his experience, Blake shared his gratitude: “I just want to take a moment to thank Eternal MMA and Proper No. Twelve for an incredible weekend on the Gold Coast. The hospitality was amazing from start to finish.”
Blake on the right ready for the Proper Weekend for Eternal 90 and 91.
From the moment Blake and his guest arrived, they were treated to a luxury experience. “We were greeted by a luxury chauffeur who took us to the Mantra at Southport. Waiting for us there was Sean, Eternal’s videographer, who showed us to our rooms and handed us some awesome goodies, including merchandise and a 1L bottle of Proper No. Twelve,” Blake recounted. The VIP treatment extended to an exclusive tour of the venue, where they even got to step inside the Eternal cage for a face-off.
Blake and his friend were chauffeured from the airport to Mantra at Southport by Black Carriage.
The weekend was a feast of MMA action, beginning with Night One’s thrilling matchups. Highlights included Deng’s precise knee strikes followed by hammer fists, Sato’s clinical performance culminating in a knee up the middle, and Larcinese’s incredible comeback that captivated fans.
Night Two elevated the excitement to new heights. With only one main card fight going the distance, it was a showcase of finishes that left the crowd in awe. Blake’s standout moments included Connor Birch’s walk-off KO, Dom Mar Fan’s rear-naked choke victory, and Darcy Vendy’s spectacular knockout. “Night Two was next level—easily the best card I’ve seen live,” Blake said. “What a crazy two nights! I’m so grateful to Proper No. Twelve and the Eternal MMA team for their hospitality and for making this trip possible. I still can’t believe I actually won this—it’s an experience I’ll never forget.”
This unforgettable weekend was more than just a celebration of elite MMA; it marked a milestone in the partnership between Eternal MMA and Proper No. Twelve, uniting fight fans across Australia. Together, they delivered an unparalleled experience, cementing their commitment to supporting and growing the sport.
Stay tuned for more exciting collaborations as Australia’s leading MMA organisation continues to set the bar for unforgettable events!
