We have many amazing people with interesting stories that walk into all our gyms! This member spotlight turns to Johan Thomas, who on his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey has lost over 35kgs! In the year he has been training with us, not only has Johan lost a massive amount of weight, he has also challenged himself by competing on competitions like AGC. We would like to commend Johan on an incredibly inspiring transformation, and cannot wait to see what the future holds for him. Read on to find out more about Johan!
Occupation: Recruitment Resourcer/Master of Education Student
Martial Arts/Sports: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
How did you get into the sport?
I have always been a long time fan of combat sports. I always find time to watch UFC fights.
What are your immediate training goals?
To compete more and achieve gold in my division.
What are your goals for the next five years?
My goal is to get better everyday and always learn new things. In jiu-jitsu, you always learn new things. My ultimate goal is to also get down to Welterweight and compete at that weight.
Why do you love training at Absolute MMA?
Like many people have answered, it is the family environment. Everyone is approachable and the members are fantastic. The coaches are always there to help you and attend to your every need.
What is your favourite move?
Ezekiel Choke.
Favourite workout/walkout song?
Free Tibet – Vini Vici Remix.
Nicknames & Fight Names?
Mr Ezekiel or Bailey 2.0.
What do you like to do to relax besides training?
I usually DJ at house parties or go to my all time favourite place, Scarlett Saturdays at Ms Collins. #johanguestlist
Can you tell us about where you’re from and any interesting stories growing up?
I grew up in Surabaya, Indonesia. I grew up always being the “big” kid.
Who are the kind of people that you look up to and why?
The kind of people I look up to are the ones that are humble and always willing to learn new things.
What’s your favourite place to eat in Melbourne and your #1 dish recommendation?
Nothing beats a good old double stack cheeseburger AKA ‘Thanos’ at Grand Trailer Park.
If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?
Take it easy and don’t try to be fancy. Stick with the basics because the basics always win.
“He nicknamed himself daddy in our group chat.”- Stephanie Scipione
“Johan is an inspiration to us all by embracing jiu-jitsu and weight training, transforming himself into a beast in such a short amount of time. He always has a smile and is happy for a chat. I once spotted him at a night club where he promotes downing a bunch of shots surrounded by beautiful women so I guess he has his gym life and night life balanced.”- Kevin Lau
“He is the fatboy slim of Absolute MMA, he was supposed to be my heavyweight Miyao twin, but he decided to ditch me to loose weight and get girls…”- Bailey Wang
“Johan. He lost all that weight, but still has a big heart.” – Richard Lattemagi
“From an outside perspective, he definitely appears to have a serious and no nonsense approach to his personal goals, and that is something that I truly respect!”- Jebadi Phazer
“Less party, more training!”- Patrick Lim
“Johan…I love to hate this guy! When we first rolled we cuddled in my closed guard for 5 mins. When he got his first stripe he mounted crucifix americana me. As he got fitter his jiu-jitsu got more technical and he ezekiels everyone – even from bottom in MMA fundamentals with gloves on! I’m proud of you and super inspired of all you have achieved, because you put in the work. However, I will continue to make memes from your Instagram posts LOL!” – Kelz Lau
