We have many amazing people with interesting stories that walk into all our gyms! The member spotlight turns to Dushan Wanniarachchige, key member of Coach Pradeep Singh’s Melbourne CBD boxing team and one of our most dedicated members in the gym! Read on to find out more about Dushan!
Martial Arts/Sports: Boxing
How did you get into the sport?
When I first joined the gym, I tried a little bit of everything, but it was Pradeep’s boxing classes that really got me hooked. I discovered that boxing is like chess, where intelligence and tactical skill is more important than physical power.
What are your immediate training goals?
I just want to keep learning how to box and progress further in my development. I would like to do well in Victoria’s bantamweight division and gain a lot of amateur boxing experience.
What are your goals for the next five years?
I’d like to win some state and national titles. I would also like to teach boxing one day.
Why do you love training at Absolute MMA?
I like training at Absolute MMA because I get to train with my friends and watch them do well in their competitions. I really like how the gym encourages a safe and positive environment, where the coaches are always looking out for their students.
What is your favourite move?
I like to slip my orthodox opponent’s jab and counter with an overhand right on their jaw. If my opponent is a southpaw, I like to deliver a straight right hand through their guard.
Favourite workout/walkout song?
I like to move around to Afro-Cuban music. I really like the Cuban boxing style, I feel as if there is a rhythmical connection between boxing and music. The 2002 single titled “Hello World” by The Saddle Club is a banger though.
Nicknames & Fight Names?
If you take a close look at my boxing gloves, you’ll see embroidered text that says “Son of Lanka”, which is the English translation of my middle name Lankaputhra. I might use this as a ring name one day.
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?
I was born in Sri Lanka and migrated to Australia with my parents when I was 7 months old. I grew up in Coburg and have called Melbourne home for 26 years.
Who are the kind of people that you look up to and why?
I look up to people who do the right thing. I’m greatly inspired by people who are generous and look out for their fellow human beings. The world really needs more good people.
What’s your favourite place to eat in Melbourne and your #1 dish recommendation?
My favourite place to eat is Fried and Tasty in Brunswick East. I would recommend the Hot Wings and Poutine.
If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?
Trust the process and don’t rush the process.
“Dushan is one of the most dedicated boxers in the boxing team – always showing up for training and always putting in the hard work. Can’t wait to see him back in the ring soon again!” – Linnea Victoria, teammate
“I would say, as a coach, Dushan is one of the most important boxers in class and to the Boxing team. He is very technical and always willing to help his fellow boxers. Even if you are a beginner, he always helps. He is a very gentle and always makes everyone feel welcome! If he keeps training like he has, he has the potential to go a long way.” – Pradeep Singh, Coach
“Dushan has been very consistent with his training, is very optimistic and has shown amazing resilience through all the obstacles he has had to face through the beginning of his amateur career- which is admirable. He’s an awesome partner at training, he trains hard, pushes you and makes you smile too. I always see him giving his best.” – Antonia Kay, teammate