Full Name:
Jon Aiello.
Age:
26.
Where were you born?
Australia.
Where do you live?
Gold Coast.
Which gym do you train out of?
The Fight Centre (TFC).
Who are your coaches?
Ben Johnston and Darcy Vendy.
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?
Musical theatre — I played the lead in every production I was part of, both in and out of school. I was also the lead singer in a band. I played rugby for a bit too, but I was just too small.
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession?
In 2021, as a white belt, I guillotined a brown belt in BJJ class. That moment made me realise I wanted to pursue fighting. I started training MMA the same year. After meeting Darcy, I knew I could take the sport all the way. We didn’t properly train together until after my first fight, but from then on he basically took control of my skill development and fighting career — until we both moved to TFC.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why?
Wrestling. There’s nothing better than physically exhausting yourself while mixing technique with explosiveness — all without the risk of concussing your teammates. Plus, let’s be real… you’re just sweaty and rolling around with your mates. Name something better.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter?
My boxing and wrestling. My hands are fast, sharp, and hard. I’m smart — a young Michael Chandler with a bigger vision. I’m going to the top. 📈
How would you describe your fighting style?
My pace and pressure are unlike anything my opponents have felt. Once I get going, I’ll melt anyone standing in front of me at bantamweight.
What is your favourite sport and why?
MMA — it’s literally the only sport worth watching. Once you decide that watching simulated murder is fun, how are you meant to go back to watching footy?
Who is your favourite athlete?
Ilia Topuria.
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete?
Darcy Vendy.
What are your immediate and long-term goals?
Immediate: Knock this guy out, take one more amateur fight, then turn pro by the end of 2025 or start of 2026.
Long-term: Headline an Eternal card in Logan City — either fighting for or defending a title — before heading to the UFC.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect?
The best performance on the card. No one does it like Daddi.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out?
Perry is skilled, aggressive, and game — probably the kind of guy I’d be mates with if we weren’t fighting. But it sucks for him… I’m going to knock him out.
A final message to any friends, family, and supporters:
Anyone who knows me knows how much I value the support and love from my friends, family, and fans. The best way I can repay everyone who believes in me is by showcasing the best version of myself. I’ll do it for them, for TFC — and most of all, for LOGAN CITY BABY!!!
Where can fans and supporters find you on social media?
Instagram: @daddi_ravioli_mma
YouTube: Time2Invest
Spotify: Gas In The Tank MMA Podcast
Watch Jon Aiello at Eternal MMA 95 on Saturday, May 3.
