Full Name:
Jonathon Aiello
Age:
26
Where were you born:
Gold Coast
Where do you live:
Gold Coast
Which gym do you train out of:
The Fight Centre Brisbane
Who are your coaches:
Ben Johnston & Darcy Vendy
What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist:
#1 Ranked Amateur MMA fighter in Aus/NZ
Blue belt in BJJ
Champion of funniest **** on Insta
What sports or activities did you participate in growing up:
Played soccer for 5 years — hated it, lol. Played rugby for a bit — was way more fun. Love a biff.
But the larger part of my youth was spent singing, dancing, and acting in musicals or performing in a band on stage. I’m a performer in all aspects but also ridiculously competitive — MMA is the sweet spot 📈
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession:
MMA was a bit of fun to fuel my competitive nature with my mates and friends that trained for real. I sparred at parties with the boys and would seek out actual training sessions with people who trained full time at places like PUMMA and Boonchu.
We’d meet, we’d scrap, I’d usually do very well.
It wasn’t until 2021 that I fell in love with Jiu Jitsu and started looking at MMA for actual competition in events. I searched for the place and when I found Darcy Vendy, I knew CMBT — the gym he was training out of at the time — was where I was going to train as well.
Wore him down by being there more than anyone else and asking heaps of questions. Once I had my first win under his tutelage, I was hooked and knew I’d be following this path for the rest of my life.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why:
Obviously sparring, lol. You get to punch on with the people you love and hate most in a safe, controlled environment… what’s not to love?
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter:
I’m a complete mixed martial artist. To go along with this, I have a ridiculous work rate and the athleticism to accompany it. I’m a freak of nature when it comes to physical ability.
How would you describe your fighting style:
Calculated Chandler. I’m technical, durable, and explosive — same as always.
What is your favourite sport and why:
MMA — only one worth watching.
Who is your favourite athlete:
Darcy Vendy
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete:
Ilia Topuria
What are your immediate and long term goals:
Immediate: First professional win at Eternal 98
Long term: Eternal Bantamweight Champion, UFC, UFC Bantamweight Champion
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect:
To be entertained from start to finish. I’m theatrical, chaotic, and violent. No one does it like Daddi.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out:
I see myself out-working, over-powering, and outlasting Perry. He won’t get out of the second.
A final message to any friends, family and supporters:
I love all of you. Whether you hate me or love me, you feel something for me — that’s all I do this for. Celebrate my win or talk shit about my “luck.” I’ll keep being me — it’s all love to everyone 🫶🏼
Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you socials:
Instagram: @daddi_ravioli_mma
TikTok: @daddi_ravioli_mma
YouTube: Gas In The Tank MMA
Watch Jon Aiello fight at Eternal MMA 98 on Saturday, September 13
