Nick “Milky” Metcalfe is a certified yoga teacher, completing his Vinyasa and Yin Training with Warrior One in 2018. Through injuries, and time off the mat Nick discovered the practice of yoga in 2015. Yoga gave him the tools to better his mind and body connection, whilst also improving his martial arts practice. This upfront yogi is a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, but also has experience in wrestling, kickboxing and MMA. He’s known for his long limbs, sneaky triangles and an extreme love of his dog, Trey. Read on to find out more about Nick!
What would you consider your greatest achievements in Martial Arts?
Getting my white belt, it was the exact point where my life changed forever.
What made you start Martial Arts?
My best mate was going to PUMMA on the Gold Coast to try out an MMA class, he called me on his way and said, “do you want to tag along?”. I always had an interest but was hooked instantly.
How did you first get involved with Absolute MMA? (What industry were you in prior to Martial Arts? What made you change?)
When I moved from the Gold Coast to Melbourne, a heap of my old training mates told me to train at Absolute with Thiago. I got a job across the road from the CBD gym in my 2nd week of living here, walked in the door and signed up about 4 years ago. I’ve now done my studies to be a yoga teacher and have the opportunity to work with martial artists.
Favourite workout/walkout song?
Kendrick – M.A.A.D City.
Mantra/Quote to live by?
It is what it is as it is.
Tell us about your life growing up, what is your favourite memory from when you were younger?
Growing up the Gold Coast was pretty much beach every day. I grew up in quite a young family, so hanging out with my grandparents and great-grandparents was awesome.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Hopefully teaching yoga full time, out of the corporate world, get my black belt.
Who is an inspiration to you, and why?
I take inspiration from some of the people closest to me the ones that need a mention Aaron S., Thiago S., Dustin B. & Jebba, they’ve been a significant part of my journey to now.
If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Ice cream.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I have an irrational fear of heights and spiders.
Can you tell us about where you’re from and any interesting stories growing up? If you’re not originally from Melbourne, how’d you end up living in Melbourne, Australia?
Born in NSW, grew up in QLD, now in VIC. Clare got a job down here, so the amazing partner I am, I decided to come down with her.
What were some funny/interesting/weird hobbies you had when you were a teenager?
I have all the original Pokemon card set, going to retire on that one day.
Who are the kind of people that you look up to and why?
People who like to share their story and are dedicated to whatever path they’re on.
Do you have a “useless” talent that makes people smile every time you use it?
I can make an epic playlist.
When was the last time you did something new for the first time and what was it?
I went rock climbing for the first time recently, turns out I’m still afraid of heights.
What’s your favourite place to eat in Melbourne and your #1 dish recommendation?
Belle’s – get the chicken sandwich with fries.
What’s your favourite music genre and musicians? Why do you enjoy their music?
Favourite musician is Nick Cave. His music has been the soundtrack to my life.
What movie have you seen over 5 times?
Pulp Fiction.
Is there a book you’ve read that has influenced your outlook on life or the way you approach certain situations or people?
I have a few, Scar Tissue, Roots of Yoga, Book of Five Rings, Can’t Hurt Me.
If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?
Turn up on time, listen to your coach, drink more water, eat all the calories, have fun, don’t quit, it is what it is as it is, Namaste.
During an Absolute MMA staff retreat, a zombie apocalypse breaks out. You get separated with 3 AMMA team members. Who would be part of your dream team and why?
Amit, we need someone who is clean and sensible. Apryl, she is a killer and is the nice one. George, he will keep all us idiots in line.
“Nick is a great guy, always friendly, always calm and is always keen to roll. We are very lucky to have him at Absolute MMA.”- Sean Le Gourrierec
“BJJer, yogi, ginger man. So creative on the mats and a funny one outside them. A brother life has brought from Queensland to us.” – Thiago Stefanutti
“Nick is a simple human being, loves his dog Trey, loves a solid comp class session and teaching us all how to chill out to the max with Yoga.” – Apryl Eppinger
“Long-limbed, red-haired, stretchy, negative-reinforcement-happy (;P) crazy person. He’s alright I guess.” – Natalie Hobbs
“I remember first meeting Nick on the mat when he first came to Absolute and thinking that despite it being one of his first times in the gym, it seemed like he’d been there for years. He’s welcoming to everyone on the mat, helpful to everyone and always quick to make sure everyone feels just as much at home at Absolute as he does. He’s also the guy that I’ll see doing every coaches class, across all of the locations and is known across the whole Absolute family. Hilarious, ridiculously flexible, and the strongest moustache in the game. He made sure to support my classes when I first came on board as a coach for the gym and he’s always there supporting everyone in the pursuits within the gym or outside of. He’s made Absolute his home since day one, and I couldn’t imagine the gym without him!”- Amit Narayan
“Nick’s Friday morning yoga class is the best way to round off a week of training. With his knowledge of yoga and martial arts, he mixes the traditional yin practice with simple self-massage to help release muscle tension and support your body to recover. Then you’re ready to train on Saturday again 
” – Linnea Waestberg
“Nick is a great no bullshit yogi. He loves an unorthodox move, and is partial to a bit of shit talking in the middle of rolling. I have a lot of time for Nick, I’d have to say he’s one of my top 5 gingers.” – Tim Baker
“Nick is fun, creative, open-minded and loves the banter! He has a lot of patience and will always give his time to help others! Namaste Nick!” – Clare Fisher
“Nick is such a great person to train with, always willing to help and throwing jokes while smashing you. Thanks!” – Juliette Brillet
“Milky always has some good stuff to talk about. He is incredibly positive and never short of words of encouragement. He changed his life for the better with his yoga, and I’m really pleased to see the smile on his face every time I see him. He has a nice moustache.”- James Walters