Full Name:
Ryan Dennis
Age:
28
Where were you born:
Wisbech, England
Where do you live:
Bicton, Perth
Which gym do you train out of:
Wilkes Mixed Martial Arts
Who are your coaches:
David Wilkes, Matthew Erceg, Steve Erceg
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:
Played football (soccer) for 23 years in the UK.
When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession:
Started at 16 just training once a week, and then after 3–4 months it turned into twice a week. After probably 8–9 months, I was training full-time in the evenings. It’s always been a hobby for me, but as soon as I started competing at 17, I knew I was addicted to the competition side of things.
Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why:
I would originally have said the grappling aspects, but training at a couple of different gyms really opened my eyes to where my game was lacking. I enjoy a technical striking class, but ultimately I’d say wall wrestling is my favourite.
What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter:
I’d say my greatest strengths are my experience in the cage and not taking too much damage — mixing the striking and grappling if things aren’t going my way.
How would you describe your fighting style:
I’d say I’m just an all-round mixed martial artist — not afraid to strike, and not shy about taking things to the ground. Back in the day, I was definitely a lay-and-pray guy before I discovered some power in my shots.
What is your favourite sport and why:
MMA, without a shadow of a doubt. It’s a sport of highs and lows, but when it’s your hand getting raised and you know you’ve put in the work and earned it — there’s no feeling on this planet that could match that.
Who is your favourite athlete:
As a football fan throughout my childhood, it would have to be Steven Gerrard, the Liverpool midfielder.
Who is your favourite combat sports athlete:
I used to love watching Chad Mendes and TJ Dillashaw when they competed, but if we’re talking about whose skills I’d want to inherit — it would be Demetrious Johnson.
What are your immediate and long term goals:
Immediate goals are to stay fit and healthy, compete as much as possible, and secure a permanent life here in Australia. Long term — I want to always be involved in MMA in some way. Whether that’s as a coach or just being a solid training partner for up-and-coming talent, I want it to be in Australia.
When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect:
I used to pull in a good crowd back in the UK, and now the aim is to gain some fans here and have every promoter happy to have me on their show.
How do you see your upcoming fight playing out:
He’s a very well-rounded guy. I know it’s going to be a tough fight, so I’ve got to take it to him, test his gas tank, and see what happens. One thing’s for sure — I’m ready for any outcome.
A final message to any friends, family and supporters:
Thank you to everyone who has supported me so far in my career. Being on a show of this calibre is a huge step up, and I couldn’t have done it without you — thank you!
Where will any fans or supporters be able to find you on socials:
Instagram: @ryan_dennis_
Watch Ryan Dennis fight at Eternal MMA 97 on Saturday, June 28.