Darcy Vendy: The Usurper’s Rise to Eternal MMA Glory

At Eternal 91, the stage was set for a clash of titans. Darcy “The Usurper” Vendy, representing The Fight Centre Brisbane, stepped into the cage to challenge the seasoned John Fraser, a two-time Eternal MMA Australian middleweight champion with a storied legacy. In a battle that captivated the MMA world, Vendy delivered a stunning third-round knockout, claiming the coveted Eternal MMA Middleweight Championship and cementing his place among Australia’s elite fighters.

A Legacy to Uphold

For Darcy Vendy, the stakes were more than just “gold”. The belt he sought had recently been vacated by his coach and mentor, Ben Johnston, a legend in Australian combat sports. Johnston’s own reign as champion ended with his retirement, leaving the belt vacant and a void to fill. Adding to the intrigue, Johnston had also defeated John Fraser during his championship run. With this backdrop, Vendy faced immense pressure to uphold his team’s legacy and prove himself as a worthy successor.

The Journey to Championship Glory

Darcy Vendy’s rise in the Eternal MMA ranks has been nothing short of inspiring. Born in Ararat, Victoria, and now based on the Gold Coast, the 29-year-old fighter represents the next generation of Australian MMA with six appearances on Eternal MMA (including a Reign Fighting appearance). Training out of The Fight Centre Brisbane under the guidance of Ben Johnston and Thomas Cooper, Vendy honed his skills through relentless effort and a strategic approach to the sport.

Vendy entered the Eternal 91 main event on a three-fight win streak, boasting a professional record of 6-3, including three knockout victories and two submissions. Among his notable wins are triumphs over Jack Della Maddalena, Alfred Stoddart, and Ty Duncan, as well as Jack James and Abel Brites. Known for his athleticism, endurance, and problem-solving abilities, Vendy’s fighting style emphasizes dismantling opponents’ skill sets, leaving them with no path to victory.

The Fight: A Defining Moment

The clash with John Fraser was billed as a battle of contrasting narratives. Fraser sought to reclaim his glory and solidify his legacy as the best middleweight in the country. Vendy, on the other hand, was determined to seize his moment and usher in a new era. The fight’s tagline captured the drama: “Will John Fraser reclaim glory, or will Darcy Vendy rise as Australia’s new middleweight king?”

The fight unfolded as a technical and physical showcase. Vendy’s preparation and game plan shone through as he weathered Fraser’s attacks, controlled the clinch exchanges, and capitalized on openings. In the third round, Vendy delivered a decisive blow, a knockout that not only ended the fight but also marked the beginning of his reign as champion.

A Champion’s Reflection

In his post-fight speech, Vendy opened up about the personal growth that paralleled his athletic journey. He spoke about the time he’d spent repairing relationships with his parents and how deeply fulfilling it was to have their support. Surrounded by people who push him to chase his goals, Vendy emphasized the importance of community and connection in his success. His heartfelt words resonated with fans, showcasing the character behind the fighter.

What’s Next for The Usurper?

Darcy Vendy’s victory at Eternal 91 is a stepping stone to even greater ambitions. While his ultimate goal is to enter the UFC and compete at the highest levels, his current focus is clear: to defend and reign as the Eternal Middleweight Champion for as long as necessary. Vendy is committed to solidifying his dominance on the regional stage before making his mark on the global MMA scene.

For fans, seeing Darcy Vendy’s name on a fight poster is a promise of high-level competition, strategic brilliance, and explosive finishes. As the Eternal MMA Middleweight Champion, Vendy is poised to inspire the next generation of fighters and continue building his legacy in the sport.

Rewatch Darcy Vendy’s incredible performance at Eternal 91 today on UFC Fight Pass.

Follow Darcy Vendy on Instagram at @theusurpermma to stay updated on his journey and witness the rise of one of the most dangerous middleweights in the region.

Know Your Fighter: Cole Smith

Full Name:

COLE SMITH

Age:

43

Where were you born:

Gisborne New Zealand

Where do you live:

Gold Coast QLD

Which gym do you train out of:

Heartbreak conditioning

Who are your coaches:

Dylan Andrews and Cam Bracewell

What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist:

Purple belt

What sports or activities did you participate in growing up:

Hunting and rugby

When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession:

26-27years

Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why:

Like it all , all fighting styles I have a interest in

What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter:

Resilience

How would you describe your fighting style:

Not sure , evolving

What is your favourite sport and why:

MMA and boxing

Who is your favourite athlete:

Muhammad Ali – Micheal Jordan

Who is your favourite combat sports athlete:

Cain Velasquez

What are your immediate and long term goals:

Get the win and then see how far I can go at my age knowing how much I missed out on during my recovery from surgery and stroke

When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect:

A man willing to put it on the line

How do you see your upcoming fight playing out:

Hard fought

A final message to any friends, family and supporters:

Thanks for the support

Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you socials:

Colehbc

Watch Cole Smith fight at Eternal MMA 91 on Saturday, November 30.

Know Your Fighter: Dom Mar Fan

Full Name:

Dom Mar Fan

Age:

24

Where were you born:

Brisbane

Where do you live:

Brisbane

Which gym do you train out of:

Team Compton Training Centre

Who are your coaches:

Steve Compton

What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist:

Brown Belt

What sports or activities did you participate in growing up:

Football.

When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession:

The second I had my first roll in bjj I knew I was gonna do this for the rest of my life. Within a month of training I had decided it would be my career.

Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why:

I find joy in every training session. Always learning, so it’s always fun.

What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter:

I can grapple and ground and pound better than anyone on the local scene. And the grapplers that are close to my level I can beat in the stand up battle.

How would you describe your fighting style:

Pressure heavy and violent

What is your favourite sport and why:

MMA. There is no greater test than combat and there is no sport closer to full on combat then mma.

Who is your favourite athlete:

Khabib

Who is your favourite combat sports athlete:

Khabib

What are your immediate and long term goals:

Immediate goal is to put on a show this fight. Over the next year I would like to get signed international

When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect:

The most exciting grappler in Australian mma

How do you see your upcoming fight playing out:

Violent finish. Either ground and pound stoppage or I snatch up a neck and put him to sleep.

A final message to any friends, family and supporters:

Enjoy the show.

Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you socials:

Follow me on Instagram. street_buddha_mma

Watch Dom Mar Fan fight at Eternal MMA 91 on Saturday, November 30.

Know Your Fighter: Jay Martin

Full Name:

Jay Martin

Age:

21

Where were you born:

Sydney

Where do you live:

Gold coast

Which gym do you train out of:

Cmbt

Who are your coaches:

Miles muecke

What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist:

Blue belt

What sports or activities did you participate in growing up:

Rugby league switched to mma at around 8 years old

When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession:

Around 15/16

Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why:

Striking/sparring that’s pretty self explanatory.

What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter:

My overall unpredictability

How would you describe your fighting style:

Relaxed & composed by also dangerous

What is your favourite sport and why:

MMA, it’s unlike anything else

Who is your favourite athlete:

Conor McGregor, Jones, Oliveira.

Who is your favourite combat sports athlete:

Multiple

What are your immediate and long term goals:

Solidify myself into the eternal flyweight scene and to be the best.

When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect:

Excitement, mystery

How do you see your upcoming fight playing out:

Me getting my hand raised.

A final message to any friends, family and supporters:

Make sure to use “Martin” at the checkout and tune in to watch me put on a show

Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you socials:

@Jaymartinmma

Watch Jay Martin fight at Eternal MMA 91 on Saturday, November 30.

Know Your Fighter: Darcy Vendy

Full Name:

Darcy Vendy

Age:

29

Where were you born:

Ararat, Victoria

Where do you live:

Gold coast

Which gym do you train out of:

The fight centre brisbane

Who are your coaches:

Ben Johnston, Thomas cooper

What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist:

None

What sports or activities did you participate in growing up:

Soccer, rugby,basketball,kendo

When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession:

Seriously as a hobby about 1 year into training after winning my first grappling competition. As a profession only 3 years ago

Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why:

Long term skill development and problem solving Nothing is as engaging as the amount of variables in mma

What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter:

Athleticism Problem solving Endurance

How would you describe your fighting style:

Winning

What is your favourite sport and why:

Aside from mma, kickboxing or some sort of esport High amounts of information processing

Who is your favourite athlete:

Rob whittaker

Who is your favourite combat sports athlete:

Rob whittaker

What are your immediate and long term goals:

Take the eternal MW title Defend title in feb/mar Contender series in July Ufc MW title in the next 2-3 years

When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect:

A complete deconstruction of my opponents skillsets and they’re primary ways of winning

How do you see your upcoming fight playing out:

2/3rd round submission or tko exiting the clinch

A final message to any friends, family and supporters:

Can’t wait to do what you all know I can

Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you socials:

@theusurpermma

Watch Darcy Vendy fight at Eternal MMA 91 on Saturday, November 30.

Know Your Fighter: Jackson Weir-White

Full Name:

Jackson Weir-White

Age:

26

Where were you born:

Ipswich

Where do you live:

Ipswich

Which gym do you train out of:

Team Compton Training Centre

Who are your coaches:

Steve and Elliot Compton

What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist:

Nil

What sports or activities did you participate in growing up:

Rugby league Athletics Tennis

When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession:

Maybe after my first fight when I was 21

Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why:

The daily pro team class. 10am with the crew at Team Compton. It’s always sink or swim

What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter:

Determination, competitiveness, gas tank. I’ll always want to go just a little bit longer or a little bit farther than my opponents. Push them to breaking point.

How would you describe your fighting style:

Pressure fighter. My favourite fighter in any domain of all time is GGG. The most humble well presented man out of the ring but inside he was a monster who gave ground to nobody.

What is your favourite sport and why:

I think MMA is definitely my favourite sport. However Watching QLD in the State of Origin Series is a close second

Who is your favourite athlete:

Fighter Gennady Golovkin MMA – Alex Volk Other sports – John Daly (Golf) he’s a vibe

Who is your favourite combat sports athlete:

Boxer – Gennady Golovkin MMA – Alex Volk Craig Jones – who doesn’t love him

What are your immediate and long term goals:

Immediate – show the eternal organisation they just landed a new crowd favourite Long term – UFC

When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect:

Barn Burner, Money Well spent, nonstop action.

How do you see your upcoming fight playing out:

I’ve been out for over a year with injury. Excited to get back in there and showcase my exciting damage orientated style

A final message to any friends, family and supporters:

Thank you all so much for the support. It’s so good to be back doing what I love. Can’t wait to celebrate a long career ahead with you all.

Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you socials:

@Jackson_Weir

Watch Jackson Weir’White fight at Eternal MMA 90 on Friday, November 29.

Know Your Fighter: Osh Jackson

Full Name:

OSH Jackson

Age:

29

Where were you born:

New Zealand

Where do you live:

Goodna

Which gym do you train out of:

CMBT

Who are your coaches:

Sam and miles CMBT

What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist:

Lowest ranking

What sports or activities did you participate in growing up:

Rugby league, bowling and tennis

When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession:

2024

Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why:

Spyda Fridays or Thursday wrestle

What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter:

Ticker

How would you describe your fighting style:

South Auckland

What is your favourite sport and why:

MMA

Who is your favourite athlete:

Payne haas

Who is your favourite combat sports athlete:

Justin Tafa

What are your immediate and long term goals:

Enjoy life and fighting

When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect:

Fireworks

How do you see your upcoming fight playing out:

A finish

A final message to any friends, family and supporters:

Grateful and blessed !! Gang

Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you socials:

osh_jt275

Watch Osh Jackson fight at Eternal MMA 90 on Friday, November 29.

Know Your Fighter: Kye Bicknell

Full Name:

Kye Bicknell

Age:

23

Where were you born:

Perth, Subiaco

Where do you live:

Perth, greenwood

Which gym do you train out of:

KICKASS MMA

Who are your coaches:

Steve Kennedy Shaun spooner

What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist:

Blue belt Brazilian jiujitsu

What sports or activities did you participate in growing up:

Karate Footy Kickboxing Boxing

When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession:

18 years old

Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why:

Sparring day Because that’s when your able to practise certain movements and combinations in all aspects of martial arts.

What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter:

Mindset and work ethic

How would you describe your fighting style:

Entertaining

What is your favourite sport and why:

MMA Because there is nothing like seeing 2 humans go to war, nothing can compare it.

Who is your favourite athlete:

Jon Jones

Who is your favourite combat sports athlete:

Jon Jones

What are your immediate and long term goals:

Going Pro and becoming a top tier Professional MMA Fighter

When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect:

A war

How do you see your upcoming fight playing out:

Me defending his grappling and giving the fans what they truly paid to come see, a war.

A final message to any friends, family and supporters:

Don’t blink

Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you socials:

Instagram- kye.bicknell

Watch Kye Bicknell fight at Eternal MMA 89 on Saturday, October 26.

Know Your Fighter: Moses Deng

Full Name:

Moses Deng

Age:

23

Where were you born:

SOUTH SUDAN

Where do you live:

Perth, Western Australia

Which gym do you train out of:

Wolves Den

Who are your coaches:

Stephen Walton

What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist:

3 stripe white belt

What sports or activities did you participate in growing up:

Track and field/ gridiron (American football )

When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession:

Started training at 19, turned pro within 4 years

Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why:

Favourite session is any session to do with striking

What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter:

Speed and timing has always been my strong points physically as well as explosiveness.

How would you describe your fighting style:

My fighting style is a mix of taekwondo and traditional kickboxing. Very flowing but explosive and counter striking heavy

What is your favourite sport and why:

Favourite sport is sprints ( track and field) since it’s what I grew up with.

Who is your favourite athlete:

Usain Bolt

Who is your favourite combat sports athlete:

Favourite combat athlete is Alex Pereira

What are your immediate and long term goals:

Put together a strong winning streak. Be in the flyweight title picture by this time next year.

When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect:

Expect a masterclass, lookin to get my first pro win and start it off with a devastating finish.

How do you see your upcoming fight playing out:

I see me being very aggressive, pushing the pace and hunting for the finish. If it goes the distance expect a diverse range of striking attacks every round

A final message to any friends, family and supporters:

It’s the killmonger era, see y’all at the top.

Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you socials:

instagram: moses__deng TikTok: moses_kmonger Twitter/X: moses__deng

Watch Moses Deng fight at Eternal MMA 89 on Saturday, October 26.

Know Your Fighter: Julian D’Rozario

Full Name:

Julian D’Rozario

Age:

25

Where were you born:

Maine, NY

Where do you live:

Gosnells

Which gym do you train out of:

Luistro Combat Academy

Who are your coaches:

Romel Luistro

What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist:

White belt

What sports or activities did you participate in growing up:

Basketball, athletics, boxing & Muay Thai

When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession:

Around late 2022 to early 2023

Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why:

The grit & grind, gotta embrace those tough training sessions. My favourite session of the week would be Monday mornings wrestling & Muay Thai class

What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter:

Cardio

How would you describe your fighting style:

Box and wrestle

What is your favourite sport and why:

MMA, because I grew up watching it & it helped me get to where I am today

Who is your favourite athlete:

Kobe Bryant

Who is your favourite combat sports athlete:

Nick Diaz

What are your immediate and long term goals:

Have as many fights as I possibly can and see where this game takes me.

When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect:

An exciting fight

How do you see your upcoming fight playing out:

Looking for the finish no matter what

A final message to any friends, family and supporters:

I appreciate everyone at LCA & DirtySouth, all a bunch of good folks 👊🏾❤️

Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you socials:

Julian_finessin

Watch Julian D’Rozario fight at Eternal MMA 89 on Saturday, October 26.