Who are your coaches: Dylan Andrews, Vince Perry, Daniel Matheson
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: Rugby union
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession: My first fight was in 2021 and it became an obsession after that.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why: My favourite aspect of training is getting a little bit better every day.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter: Wrestling.
How would you describe your fighting style: Forward pressure.
What is your favourite sport and why: MMA – it’s the best all-round sport to watch and be a part of.
Who is your favourite athlete: George St-Pierre
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete: George St-Pierre
What are your immediate and long term goals: Immediate goal is solely focused on this fight and winning.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect: A mixture of all things.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out: Winning by any means necessary.
A final message to any friends, family and supporters: Thank you for all the support. It’s been a long layoff, and I don’t intend to keep it that way.
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: Being from North Queensland, I was like most kids my age — I lived and breathed Rugby League. All I wanted to be was JT, even had the headgear to match.
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession: I had my first MMA fight at 16 and won by second-round TKO. From then on, being a professional fighter was all I ever wanted to be.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why: It’s got to be Thursday sparring night. It’s all good to drill and work on skills, but to me nothing beats having the openness and freedom to express yourself fully during sparring. Putting all the pieces together and testing your skills with real consequences is what I love.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter: My ability to put guys away. I only need a small moment and I can change a fight quickly — there’s a reason all my wins have come by stoppage.
How would you describe your fighting style: Dangerous. Ultimately, I’m looking to back you up, cut you off and find your chin. But I do like to initiate a shootout and back my speed and power to get it done.
What is your favourite sport and why: Apart from MMA, it would have to be Rugby League.
Who is your favourite athlete: Alexander Volkanovski — it’s so inspiring to see an Aussie at the pinnacle of the sport.
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete: Still Volk.
What are your immediate and long term goals: Immediately, I’m not looking past my next fight. It’s a very tough test and I can’t wait to prove what I can do. Long term, I want that Eternal welterweight belt around my waist.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect: If you like KOs, I’m your guy. I’m coming to put my opponents to sleep.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out: Expect fireworks. We both go forward and push the action — this is going to be a war.
A final message to any friends, family and supporters: Truly appreciate the love and support of all the people behind me.
Which gym do you train out of: CMBT Training Centre
Who are your coaches: Miles Muecke, Brentin Mumford, Jesse Yada, Reece McLaren
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: NRL, Karate, Muay Thai
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession: I took MMA seriously around 2021 after I finally healed a disc protrusion in my neck. This took about 6 months of physio and exercises every morning to overcome. I’ve wanted to pursue MMA professionally since before my first amateur fight.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why: My favourite aspect would just be the relationships you develop along the way, but I also love routine and the self-confidence of knowing I can protect myself. Favourite session would have to be sparring. Nothing is more novel to me than the mind games and tricks to land strikes or takedowns in unsuspecting, creative ways.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter: I don’t have much aggression or anger—I’m just hyper-competitive. This means I’m always thinking about how I can win, and not about how I can get back the last strike I took.
How would you describe your fighting style: I’m an all-rounder. Definitely a bit of a brawler at times, and I use my cardio later in rounds to push the pace. I prefer to strike but am not afraid to shoot a takedown if I need to.
What is your favourite sport and why: MMA – craziest sport in the world.
Who is your favourite athlete: Alexander Volkanovski
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete: Alexander Volkanovski – I love his speeches. “Adversity is a privilege” resonated with me, among others.
What are your immediate and long-term goals: To go on a win streak at pro and get some finishes. Put on a few kgs of muscle. Go to the UFC.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect: Action, violence, & pressure.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out: Louie looks like he has a good chin on him from watching his previous fights. I see myself landing some big shots on the feet and Louie coming forward looking to clinch up and wrestle. He won’t get me down, and I will make him quit over 15 minutes. TKO stoppage.
A final message to any friends, family and supporters: I appreciate you all. This is just the beginning. Watch this space.
Where will any fans or supporters be able to find your socials: Instagram: doubleshotmma
Watch Luke Melrose 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: 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
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.
Which gym do you train out of: Fight Club Jiu Jitsu / Black Dragon Kai
Who are your coaches: Gavin Hain Geordie Lavers-McBain Daniel Lima
What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist:
Purple Belt – BJJ
Brown Armband – BDK Muay Thai
Orange Belt – Judo
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up: BMX, swimming, karate, gymnastics
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession: I trained karate at age 7 for two years as a hobby. I started judo at 15, and then joined Fight Club at 16. Since then, I’ve been training five days a week with the goal of fighting.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why: Probably Muay Thai — but I enjoy everything almost equally 😆
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter: I want to be good everywhere the fight goes. Having participated in many sports growing up (and currently), I feel some things come to me easier than they do to others.
How would you describe your fighting style: Not a striker, not a grappler — I’m a mixed martial artist. I know I can knock my opponent out, and I know I can submit them.
What is your favourite sport and why: Other than MMA, probably Muay Thai. I love the high stakes and the fact that a fighter getting dominated most of the fight can still turn the tides at any point.
Who is your favourite athlete: Max Holloway (I don’t watch sports outside of combat sports 😆)
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete: Max Holloway
What are your immediate and long-term goals: Short-term: Win my pro debut convincingly and excitingly. Long-term: Become a UFC champion and be an exciting fighter.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect: A fighter who’s looking to hurt his opponent and get the finish.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out: Not going to tell you 🤫
A final message to any friends, family and supporters: Thank you to everyone — your support is very appreciated!
Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you on socials: Instagram – @nikita_laptsevich
Watch Nikita Laptsevich fight at Eternal MMA 98on Saturday, September 13
