Full Name:
Richmond Butafa.

Age:
26.

Where were you born?
Honiara, Solomon Islands.

Where do you live?
Logan, Queensland, Australia.

Which gym do you train out of?
The Fight Centre Brisbane (TFC).

Who are your coaches?
Ben Johnston, Nakia Melody, Dez Maea.

What belts or rankings do you currently hold as a martial artist?
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Blue Belt.

What sports or activities did you participate in growing up?
Basketball and soccer.

When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession?
2023.

Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why?
Saturday sparring is my favourite because our group of amateurs gets to mix it up with the pro athletes at our gym. We get solid rounds and valuable feedback from them.

What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter?
Grappling.

How would you describe your fighting style?
Grappler.

What is your favourite sport and why?
MMA grappling – because it combines the fun of Jiu Jitsu with the wrestler’s mindset of not staying on your back.

Who is your favourite athlete?
Stephen Curry (NBA).

Who is your favourite combat sports athlete?
Charles Oliveira.

What are your immediate and long-term goals?
To fight as much as possible to gain experience and reps. I also want to be a good training partner for the younger athletes at the gym, as they have the time and mindset to make it to the UFC one day. My long-term goal is to become a professional fighter.

When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect?
A chill guy.

How do you see your upcoming fight playing out?
Getting the win.

A final message to any friends, family, and supporters:
None.

Where can fans and supporters find you on social media?
Instagram: @richie_butafa
Facebook: Richie

Watch Richmond Butafa fight at Eternal MMA 95 on Saturday, May 3.