Category Archives: Meet the Team

Coach Maryanne Mullahy aka “She Hulk” is a three-time World Champion in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a two-time World Championship Silver Medallist and before receiving her Black Belt she was currently ranked as the #1 Brown Belt female in the world for no-gi jiu-jitsu. She is also currently ranked as the number one Photoshop master at Absolute MMA and if you’ve ever made an awkward face in a photograph, even just once…no one can save you now. As strong as she is kind, we’re lucky to have her guiding our beginners through their Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey at Melbourne CBD. Read on to find out about Maryanne!

What would you consider your greatest achievements in Martial Arts?

Double gold at the 2013 No-Gi World Championships as a brown belt.

What made you start Martial Arts?

I was 16 at the time and some people came and did a self defense workshop at my high school. I really enjoyed it. The following week my friend dragged me to the local jiu jitsu club, and after my first class I was obsessed. Pretty much lived at the gym from that day forward, haha.

How did you first get involved with Absolute MMA? (What industry were you in prior to Martial Arts? What made you change?)

I moved to Melbourne for university and I trained at a few different clubs when I first arrived. One day Thiago invited me to come visit Absolute CBD for a training session (as I’d trained with him in the past when he had instructed at other gyms). When I walked though the door I knew Absolute was where I wanted to be.

Tell us about your life growing up, what is your favorite memory from when you were younger?

I remember putting my older brothers into jiu jitsu holds when they annoyed me (haha).

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Retired on an island after a massive lottery win surrounded by a pack of puppies… a girl can dream, right?

If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Cheeeessseeecakkkkeeeee.

If you weren’t working in the Martial Arts industry, what would you be doing?

I actually work in financial services full time, coaching martial arts is a part time gig for me.

What do you like to do to relax besides training?

Ride my motorbike and I really enjoy drawing when I have the time.

If you were going to be an animal, what would you be and why?

A unicorn! Why? It’s a horse with a sword on it’s head… need I say anymore? *stabby stabby*

What is your favorite travel destination? Why?

Europe. Cause I have a lot of friends and relatives over there. Always good to go visit them.

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’m originally from Geelong, but moved to Melbourne to study a science degree. Did the degree, but don’t work in a science field. I know… makes perfect sense.

What movie have you seen over 5 times?

Con Air and Godzilla (the Matthew Broderick one).

If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?

Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to be perfect and grade right away. Martial arts is a journey, not a sprint! Be sure to enjoy that journey.

During an Absolute MMA staff retreat a zombie apocalypse breaks out. You get separated with 3 AMMA team members. Who would be part your dream team and why?

Richard Lattemagi, as he’s my Estonian brother from another mother. Emilie Yap, cause she’s my sista from another mister. And Paul Bai…. cause every Zombie apocalypse team needs cannon fodder. Xoxox

“Maryanne is the P4P nicest person in the gym, and arguably, the world. She’s always been someone who will go out of her way to help me and others. She’s truly one of a kind, already an absolute legend in Australian grappling, someone I’m lucky to have learned off of and someone I feel privileged to call a friend. She’s also hands down one of the strongest humans in the gym, and that’s saying a lot when you look at who trains at Absolute.”- Amit Narayan

“Super Coach.” – Nathan Heddle

“Without her welcoming myself and my friend Mordor to Australia…I love her, she’s forever my best friend in Australia, my sister from another mister, and I can’t be more thankful to her for being the lovely open person that she is.” – Richard Lattemagi

“Being friends with Maryanne is like winning the friend lottery in life! Lucky to have her in my life, prouder to call her my sister. You won’t find anyone more supportive, encouraging and genuine. As one of the Introduction class coaches, Maryanne is one of the first teachers our new students have, and we couldn’t ask for a better person to introduce the gym. As Lady Gaga once said, “Talented. Brilliant. Incredible. Amazing. Showstopping. Spectacular.”…and that’s how Maryanne feels about me. Haha! She makes a phenomenal roast which is on par with her roasting skills so it’s best not to cross her or she’ll Photoshop your head onto…something. Nothing but love and respect for this amazing woman!” – Emilie Yap 

“I’m convinced time machines have already been invented. How else could Maryanne have been the inspiration
for the creation of She Hulk in 1980?” – Sarah Wahjudi

“Maryanne’s a world class buttkicker, a skilled coach and a dear friend. She’s taught me to respect leglocks and is my dog’s favorite human. She once had her brother give my family $500 worth of luxury cheeses, saving us from starvation. Growing up, She Hulk had a poster of Maryanne on her wall. True story. Don’t miss out. Come train with her at Absolute today.”-
Han Wahjudi

Maryanne destroying the Avengers (1980). Photo for reference purposes only

“An amazonian with a heart of gold who also makes a mean Sunday roast. She once took in a couple of Estonian street kids out of a crack house and let them live with her. She once chased me across a room because I took her unlocked phone with Facebook open. It was the only time in my life where I experienced pure fear that my life would truly end, as I barricaded myself in a room as she was breaking down the door demanding that I give her phone back. She’s awesome.”- Kevin Lau

“Kind and strong, gentle lady as a person, the best Coach in the world! Don’t miss out her class ! It can be changed your life.” – Rhylie Kim

Coach Connor Evans of Absolute MMA St Kilda has over 15 years of freestyle wrestling experience. During his time on the mats he has been a member of the Scottish, British and Australian national teams and was selected to represent Australian in the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Connor is not just a highly decorated competitive wrestler, but also has a passion for music, having played guitar for over 14 years. We are very lucky to have him handling the Wrestling classes! Read on to find out more about Connor!

What made you start Martial Arts?

I started wrestling when I was 7 because I thought it was the same as pro wrestling on TV.

How did you first get involved with Absolute MMA? (What industry were you in prior to Martial Arts? What made you change?)

I had trained wrestling with one of the other coaches and he asked if I would be interested in doing some coaching. Prior to coaching I was an electrician, I left the electrical trade to focus on training/coaching full time.

Favorite workout/walkout song?

Retilla, the strokes

Tell us about your life growing up, what is your favorite memory from when you were younger?

I moved to Melbourne with my family from Scotland when I was 16. My favorite memory growing up was my last camping trip with friends before moving to Australia.

Who is an inspiration to you, and why?

My parents, because they have given me, my brother and sister every opportunity to get to where we are right now. They showed me how much hard work can pay off.

If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Pizza!

What do you like to do to relax besides training?

Playing my guitar or just hanging out with friends.

If you were going to be an animal, what would you be and why?

Probably a dog, can’t really say why other than they’re my favorite animal.

What is your favorite travel destination? Why?

Gold Coast. Good place to relax when I’m not training or competing.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I’ve competed on 3 different national teams for wrestling. Scotland, UK and Australia.

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?

Moved to Melbourne with family when I was 16. My parents wanted a different lifestyle for me, my brother and sister and we loved Melbourne from the moment we got here.

What were some funny/interesting/weird hobbies you had when you were a teenager?

I used to be a skater and had hoped to go pro when I was younger but this never really worked out.

Who are the kind of people that you look up to and why?

Hard working people that are driven and won’t stop trying to reach their goals no matter how hard they are to achieve.

Have you ever worked a job outside of the fitness/martial arts industry? What were the highlights and lessons you learned?

I was an aviation maintenance engineer and an electrician before working in martial arts.

What’s your favorite place to eat in Melbourne and your #1 dish recommendation?

Squires loft in Essendon. Favorite dish would be the 750g rib eye medium/rare with chips and gravy.

What movie have you seen over 5 times?

The Lion King.

If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?

Have fun with it.

“Connor puts up with a lot of our immature sh*t. And yet, he somehow manages to effectively impart his wrestling knowledge to us; adding a valuable layer towards our BJJ/grappling/MMA game. He is an excellent coach, who has also been a strong & consistent role model, both as a teacher and competitor. We are very f**king lucky to have him at our gym.”- Young Nghiem

Since coming on as a casual many years ago, Emilie Yap has grown to fill many roles within the Absolute MMA machine! In this staff profile we get to know the smiling face at reception in the CBD, the voice of Absolute MMA social media and the glue that keeps the administration team together!

Nicknames & Fight Names?
Emmy, Toohey also likes to call me Potato.

What made you start Martial Arts?
I was always interested in Martial Arts growing up and always watched a lot of martial arts movies with my Dad but I was never really sure if it was for me! I did a lot of yoga and other sports previously, then Laos Toohey convinced me to start taking his classes, I fell in love with Muay Thai and I’ve been doing it ever since!

How did you first get involved with Absolute MMA? (What industry were you in prior to Martial Arts? What made you change?)
I started working here part time in university after leaving a job at a bank, loved it so much I never left and started working full time doing more media/marketing with Absolute MMA when I graduated.

Mantra/Quote to live by?
Find joy in your journey.

Tell us about your life growing up, what is your favourite memory from when you were younger?
Jumping into massive piles of leaves during Autumn in parks, climbing oak trees and throwing acorns at family members.

Who is an inspiration to you, and why?
So many people. But most recently Ravi, one of the founders of The Yatra Foundation. They do some great work helping provide disadvantaged children in India the opportunity to access education! Check them out here: http://yatrafoundation.org/

If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Pho! Great when you are sick and great when you are well. It could be 30+ Degrees Celsius outside and I would still order this.

What do you like to do to relax besides training?
Bubble baths and listening to music/podcasts

If you were going to be an animal, what would you be and why?
Probably a bird of some kind. Flying would be amazing!

What is your favorite travel destination? Why?
Japan, there’s so much to experience there. You’ve got the perfect blend of the modern and traditional, plus Niseko for skiing/snow boarding! Plus the food is amazing.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I mispronounced the word ‘almond’ wrong for a significant part of my adult life and no one told me!

When was the last time you did something new for the first time and what was it?
Wore a sari recently, pretty sure I butchered wrapping it around myself. Two lovely women saw my struggle, took pity on me and assisted me in doing it properly! Wherever you are, thank you.

Have you ever worked a job not in the fitness/martial arts industry? What were the highlights and lessons you learned?
I worked for a bank for a couple of years before working for Absolute MMA. Learned how important it is to have a basic understanding of banking and how it works!

What’s your favourite place to eat in Melbourne and your #1 dish recommendation?
Huge fan of Baba Sus in Glen Iris! Their Hong Kong egg waffle is amazing.

If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?
Start earlier, stick with it and be more confident in yourself. No one expects you to be perfect as a beginner!

During a Absolute MMA staff retreat a zombie apocalypse breaks out. You get separated with 3 AMMA team members. Who would be part your dream team and why?
Maryanne Mullahy, my sister from another mister, super strong and all around great human being. Oliver Smith to lead and calm down all the beginners (or survivors, whatever you want to call them) the team would come across and Richard Lattemagi because I feel like he could convince the zombies to not eat us through some demon sales magic.

“Em is the responsible adult in the gym and a mother, aunt and sister to the whole team. Without her presence we’d all be back in caveman loincloths and burning the office furniture for warmth within a week.” – Dan Herbertson

“Emilie is the glue that holds this gym together. After several years of pretending to work at Absolute MMA she has finally started practicing Muay Thai. So much easier now that she knows we’re a martial arts gym and don’t offer a whole bunch of oddly named spin classes.” – Richard Lattemagi

“She is the sweetest badass you’ll ever meet ♥️ ” – Siew Wen Tan

“Em is like our little sister, everyone looks after her because she does the same to us. She is one of the nicest person you can meet. Always happy and positive.” – Thiago Stefanutti

” Emilie is the sweetest, kindest, most caring individual to grace the mats of Absolute MMA. She is truly a rose among thorns. ” Darren Gn

Coach “Slammin” Sam Hibberd (also known as ‘Flubber’) is a professional Mixed Martial Artist with an official record of 6-3 and a Muay Thai record of 1-0. After having an undefeated amateur record of 4-0. Sam has fought 5 times on Hex Fight Series, Australia’s biggest Mixed Martial Arts promotion and holds a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt. Sam has been integral in our Mixed Martial Arts program at Absolute MMA Collingwood, and can always be counted on to support the fight team. He’s so dedicated to his craft, you could almost say he lives in the gym. Best of luck to Sam for his upcoming bout on Eternal MMA 39 on Saturday, November 24th 2018! Read on to find out more about Sam!

What would you consider your greatest achievements in Martial Arts?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt
Undefeated Amateur Career
Professional career 6-3
5 time hex fight series veteran
Multiple times Co-Main event eternal MMA
1-0 Muay Thai at Bangla Stadium

What made you start Martial Arts?

I was a pro wrestling fan.

How did you first get involved with Absolute MMA? (What industry were you in prior to Martial Arts? What made you change?)

I used to train with Simon Carson at Ringwood BJJ Under Bernie Jenkins and Brett Tamblyn. I have been at Absolute MMA since day 1, I used to work the am shifts while I was finishing my degree in communication design at RMIT.

Favorite workout?

I enjoy my long runs from Collingwood to St Kilda and then I like to try and survive the ADCC sessions.

Tell us about your life growing up.

I grew up 15km outside of Mildura in a small town called Merbein, here I started power lifting as a teenager, just for the love of it. I then started my martial arts training with Mick Moloney.

Who is an inspiration to you, and why?

Frank Reynolds – Always Sunny in Philadelphia.

If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

If I have to make weight – Mexican. If I don’t – Italian.

If you were going to be an animal, what would you be and why?

Cat. They have life worked out.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I am a Hawthorn supporter.

What were some hobbies you had when you were a teenager?

I played over 15 years of basketball.

Can you think of a common inspirational quote that you completely disagree with and why?

“If it was meant to be, it will happen.” I think you make your own opportunities, don’t sit around waiting for things to happen.

Who are the kind of people that you look up to and why?

Anybody that has their life together… you can learn something from everyone.

When was the last time you did something new for the first time and what was it?

Meditation, about 12 months ago.

What’s your favorite place to eat in Melbourne and your #1 dish recommendation?

Big boys BBQ in Caulfield.

What’s your favorite music genre and musicians? Why do you enjoy their music?

Action bronson, ghostface killa, kid cudi, I’ll listen to anything at different times. Music is a big help during fight camp, you can use it to control your moods a little.

Is there a book you’ve read that has influenced your outlook on life or the way you approach certain situations or people?

Where’s Wally. He just lives the life, travels the world, and is found when he wants to be.

If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?

Never stop learning. You are a lot fatter then you think you are.

What movie have you seen over 5 times?

Kill Bill.

During a Absolute MMA staff retreat a zombie apocalypse breaks out. You get separated with 3 AMMA team members. Who would be part your dream team and why?

Dan Herb and Tao – they would have a shelter built real quick and it would be good. Imantha – He knows why, and I would probably be able to out run him if needed to.

“Sam is a wrecking machine. He has experience from training around the world and his snap down is sick.”- Sean Le Gourierrec

“Will always identify and reflect on the positives to take from a fight and areas to work on immediately after the fight.”- Josh Grove

“Sam is a great martial artist and passionate, energetic coach. On top of that he’s a stand-up bloke. I still owe him one from that time in Thailand I woke him up at 5:30am with van keys and a map to the airport!”- Oliver Smith

“Sam is one of our most valuable assets. A brilliant coach for the MMA team, and a formidable pro fighter. We are blessed to have an athlete like him.” – Jai Tao

“I’ve trained with Sam for more than over 10 years and it has been great to see Sam develop as both an fighter and a coach. Sam was very important in starting Absolute and was a key part of our early growth. Sam’s return has bought more than just Staph and ringworm to the club, he is a great addition to our team both on and off the mats. While Sam may lack in personal hygiene, he has still developed a great following at the club which is a testament to his coaching, personality and how he fights. It has been great to see Sam get the best out of his athletic ability and rise to upper levels over local MMA and it will be great to see him continue to progress over the coming years. Thanks for your contribution Sam.”- Simon Carson

“Sam is not only a very skilled fighter, but also an excellent MMA coach. I find his style of teaching to be extremely helpful and meaningful in every single class. He puts a great amount of effort into helping each and every one of his students reach their full potential and goals. His passion for MMA definitely reflects both when fighting and teaching.”- Lisa Kyriacou

“Sam is an expert coach, he goes out of his way to explain things in detail and will help you understand why you are performing this certain technique, the cues and will help identify your form, even if you’re like Lisa Kyriacou and have no idea what the hell is going on. If you’re (un)fortunate enough to be in the cage with him during sparring, get ready for a long and exhausting round.”- Imantha Alahakoon

Photos: Eternal MMA.

Coach Mikael Yahaya is a locally and internationally competitive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt. A man of many names, “The Warbaby”…”Caramel Comfort”…he is also a IBJJF No Gi Worlds Medallist, 4 x Pan Pacific Champion, Kasai Pro 2 Superfight winner, Aus Grappling Championship Superfight Champion, Aus Sub Only Superfight Champion, an ADCC Japan Qualifier Veteran and an Abu Dhabi World Pro Veteran. What a list!

We’re lucky enough to have Mikael guiding our kids/teens BJJ program at Absolute MMA St Kilda and we can’t thank him enough for all the hard work he puts into teaching our prodigies. Read on to find out more about Mikael!

What would you consider your greatest achievements in Martial Arts?

My greatest achievement in this art is getting to meet all the lovely people from around the world that share a love for jiu-jitsu as I do.

What made you start Martial Arts?

Fitness and self defence, as well as a learning experience.

How did you first get involved with Absolute MMA? (What industry were you in prior to Martial Arts? What made you change?)

I practiced jiu-jitsu all throughout university and I attempted to make a full time thing of it during my gap year after I graduated. I got the teaching role with Absolute MMA 6-7 months into that year. Here I am now!

What is your favourite memory from when you were younger?

Seeing my sister for the very first time.

Who is an inspiration to you, and why?

Anyone that loves learning and stepping outside of their comfort zone is someone I’ll be inspired by. Someone that’s always changing and adapting. I love seeing that.

If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Pizza. There’s always room for one more slice.

If you weren’t working in the Martial Arts industry, what would you be doing?

I’d like to say if I didn’t do martial arts that I would have taken a risk to try and make a music career. But who knows?

Mantra/Quote to live by?

“Always down to throwdown”.

If you were going to be an animal, what would you be and why?

A monkey. If you met me you’d understand.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I only learnt how to ride a skateboard at the age of 25. Thanks Sean Le Gourrierec!

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 Malaysia. I lived there till I was 12 and my parents sent me to boarding school here. Now here I am!

Can you think of a common inspirational quote that you completely disagree with and why?

Drillers make killers. No comment. The world ain’t ready.

Besides martial arts, what else are you passionate about and why?

Music definitely. I love the art of music. There is always so much to do and learn. Like sparring, every song played is always different. Things can never be replicated exactly. Nor should they be.

Who are the kind of people that you look up to and why?

Most people. I’m pretty short.

Do you have a “useless” talent that makes people smile every time you use it?

I’m really good at making fun of Tom Everett.

Have you done other sports besides martial arts?

Rugby union. My first love. I was always the scrappy runt getting into fights. Not much has changed.

What’s your favourite place to eat in Melbourne and your #1 dish recommendation?

Hello Sam Cafe in South Yarra. Any burger is delicious!

If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?

Don’t be so harsh on yourself. Things will click eventually. We get better with light bulb moments. Not a steady gradient.

During a Absolute MMA staff retreat a zombie apocalypse breaks out. You get separated with 3 AMMA team members. Who would be part your dream team and why?

I believe I can run the furthest and the quickest. I think I’ll be fine on my own ?

“Mikael would probably be in the top three male light-featherweight brown belts from Malaysia that are living and competing in Australia.” – Dr Lachlan Giles

“I first met Mikael 3 years ago when he came into our old South Yarra location looking to train. Sadly Mikael was homeless, but he was a good kid so we decided to let him train anyway. He actually doesn’t even know how old he is. Some say he’s 15 others think he’s 37. He trains relentlessly, sometimes even 5 sessions in a single week. Obviously with this hard training schedule comes great results and we’ve seen him smash his way into the rankings, coming in as the 37th ranked light featherweight, masters 3, half Indian, half Malaysian jiu jitsu fighter he is today.” – Craig Jones

“Mikael is not only a dedicated kids coach he’s also a kid himself. Pound for pound the hairiest kid on earth.” – Tom Everett

Coach and Center Manager Richard “Lättemägic” Lättemägi is most likely the first familiar face many of you saw when you entered the doors of Melbourne CBD. Devoted to the gym and the people in it, he’s got endless energy to help out our members and crush people on the mats with his freaky rubber-esque boa constrictor skills. When he’s not running the gym from desk, he’s guiding people in the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Absolute MMA Collingwood on Fridays at 12.30pm. Be sure to check out his classes, and read on to find out more about our favourite Estonian!

What would you consider your greatest achievements in Martial Arts?

Surviving Big Nog’s crushing side control.

What made you start Martial Arts?

Watching UFC and going “This BJJ thing seems interesting!”. Plus I wanted to be kick ass. Now I just want to pull guard and heel hook people.

How did you first get involved with Absolute MMA? (What industry were you in prior to Martial Arts? What made you change?)

Started training BJJ at Absolute MMA before I started working here. I was actually in financial software before this!

Favourite workout/walkout song?

“Are You Man Enough” – The Four Tops.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Pretty decent at pulling guard.

If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

A succulent reverse-seared steak with chimichurri prepared by James Walters.

What do you like to do to relax besides training?

Travel around Victoria. Recently got into photography. Read. Browse /r/BJJ.

If you were going to be an animal, what would you be and why?

I AM a monkey.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I can scratch the back of my head with my foot.

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’m from Tallinn, Estonia. Most people think it’s a made-up country but I swear it exists. When people ask me to speak Estonian I just say “Jäääär!”.

Can you think of a common inspirational quote that you completely disagree with and why?

Lachlan Giles stole my answer to this one.

Who are the kind of people that you look up to and why?

People who can admit when they’re wrong. Still working on that one myself…

Do you have a “useless” talent that makes people smile every time you use it?

My face. And it’s more like “laugh” than “smile”. I am also able to triangle choke myself.

What’s your favourite place to eat in Melbourne and your #1 dish recommendation?

Recently went to Chin Chin for the first time and had the “Feed Me” option. Blown away. So delicious! EDIT: Gone there twice now. Moved up a weight class.

What movie have you seen over 5 times?

“The Bodyguard” with Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston.

Is there a book you’ve read that has influenced your outlook on life or the way you approach certain situations or people?

Plenty of great books I’ve read through the years but more recently “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie. Highly recommend to anyone who wants to suck a bit less at communicating with people.

If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?

I wouldn’t give any advice. I’d just heel hook myself.

During a Absolute MMA staff retreat a zombie apocalypse breaks out. You get separated with 3 AMMA team members. Who would be part your dream team and why?

James Walters as the chef. He’d be able to cook up a mad zombie-feast.
Joe Boobyer because he’s great at staying out of trouble.
Em Yap because…well. She’s Em.

“There are 3 things that motivate and describe Lättemägic. Coffee, bjj and sales…and only closers deserve coffee.” – Apryl Eppinger

“Richard has a shiny head.” – James Walters

“One of the best things about martial arts is the friendships you make, and through martial arts I was able to meet Richard. Richard is the family you choose. Funny, smart, caring, and a boss grappler… practically part of the furniture at the gym from the day he came to an open mat all those years ago. The gym is a better place with our Estonia brother from another mother there!”- Maryanne Mullahy

“If like me, you’ve been wondering what it would be like to roll with gumby on steroids, Lattemagi is your man.” – Maxwell Mews

“As charming as Richard is, he is 100 times stretchier (I have borne witness to him speaking on his phone with his foot to his ear) and passing his guard is hard. I love and hate him at the same time. Also he has one tight triangle.”- Tina Trinh

“My Estonian brother from another mother. A great guy who is an even greater competitive grappler. Happy to see how his life developed here in Australia through Absolute MMA. Always friendly and always willing to tell it like it is. His usual maccas order is a large big Mac meal with a sprite and Apple pie.”- Kevin Lau

“Richard has perfected the art of the 7/11 strong flat white and for that, we thank him. Everything else I came up with about the man was NSFW.”- Oliver Smith

“This one. Helps us keep the gym together and always makes me laugh with that crazy wide eyed grin he loves to pull! When he’s not developing his already formidable sale skills, he’s helping me save money with his endless list of life hacks. Here’s to many more shared coffees on desk, thanks for being my partner in crime at Melbourne CBD, and to taking over the martial arts world!” – Emilie Yap

“Richard is one of the friendliest people in the gym, staff or member. He is always happy, full of energy, and down to have a laugh. He has great jiu jitsu, when rolling with him, watch out for his damn octopus legs! 11/10 great guy”- Tim Baker

“This Russian is a pretty nice guy.He could sell sand in the desert and ice in Antarctica. He is a flexible bastard in Jiu-Jitsu who dreams he will heel hook me but it will never happen and he knows that.”- Thiago Stefanutti

Photos: Massaphotos and Richard Lattemagi

Coach Bradley Wiedenhofer received his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt in 2017 and is active both locally and internationally on the competition scene. He is a Pan Pacific gold medalist with a heart to match, read on to find out more about Brad!

How did you first get involved with Absolute MMA?

I was training in South Australia, once I moved to Melbourne I asked my coach where I should train and he said “You should train at Absolute MMA”. He knew about their reputation and the quality of the coaches and teachers.

Tell us about your life growing up!

Played a fair few sports, but was never really good at any of them. I wasn’t as excited about any of them, and none of them pushed me as much as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. When I found BJJ I wanted to push myself and try to learn as much as I could, I’ve never looked back.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I would like to medal at the ADCC qualifiers, but I also hope to have my black belt in the next five years.

If you were going to be an animal, what would you be and why?

A wolf, because they are a pack animal and work together.

Besides martial arts, what else are you passionate about and why?

Music. I go see bands and live performances a lot and am passionate about music and how it can pick you up or push you forward. I like the way your mood changes according to what you are listening to.

Who are the kind of people that you look up to and why?

I like humble people and those who are happy to share their knowledge and wisdom with you to help you grow and become better.

When was the last time you did something new for the first time and what was it?

After damaging my knee, I did a couple boxing classes to mix things up and keep myself active. I wasn’t very good but was a great experience.

Have you done other sports besides martial art?

I played soccer, baseball, basketball and volleyball when I was growing up. I also played cricket for a very short time, but I was terrible at it. I think spent more time on the bench with cricket than being on the pitch.

Have you ever worked a job not in the fitness/martial arts industry? What were the highlights and lessons you learned?

I work a full time job as well as teaching at Absolute MMA. I have worked in factories and in retail and have learnt to treat people how you would like to be treated. It doesn’t always turn out that way, but I find it is a good rule to live by.

What movie have you seen over 5 times?

I am a big fan of movies and have watched many over five times! I would have to say two of the best would be “Warrior” with Tom Hardy and Joel Edgartown and also “The Raid 2” with Iko Uwais. Amazing movies.

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 your time, it’s not a race and you only have your belt once. Travel and train every where you can. Meet people from the sport and make as many friends as you can. And take care of your body and injuries.

During a Absolute MMA staff retreat a zombie apocalypse breaks out. You get separated with 3 AMMA team members. Who would be part your dream team and why?

Hahaha! I couldn’t say three! I have such an amazing team at Absolute MMA so there would be way more then three in my dream team. We have so many amazing people across all of our gyms. I don’t think it would be a dream team, more like a dream squad full of absolute warriors and savages!

“Bradley is hands down one of the nicest people I have ever met in my entire life. I would really just like to grow up to be as good a human as he is. I often ask Brad if he could sit on my shoulder all day and be my personal motivator, as his positive outlook on life and his approach to BJJ and training is really something to be admired. I feel like I would achieve a lot more in my day, if he just whispered sweet motivating nothings into my ear every 5 minutes. He is a massive asset to the club, an amazing coach and a great friend.

Brad’s only downfall is that he sometimes calls me SIR. Instead of MA’AM. Which he deserves to be choked for, really!” – Livia Gluchowska

“Brad is the nicest person you will ever meet, you would never guess how lethal his jiu-jitsu is.” – Lachlan Giles

“Brad will slap hands and say “good training sir”, then proceed to give you an absolute beat down, and after shake hands and say “that was a pleasure sir, you are an absolute beast.”” – James Walters

Coach Steve Phillips started training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2003 and has since competed at all belt levels, across the Adult, Masters and Seniors age divisions, receiving medals at State, National and International level. He has taught self-defence classes to beginners and advanced students and his coaching style is relaxed, inclusive and thoughtful. Helping many of our students to feel more confident in their ability in our Self Defence class, you could argue that Steve is most definitely the hero we need right now. Read on to find out more about this absolute gentleman!

What would you consider your greatest achievements in Martial Arts?

Being graded to Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu by my coach and friend Thiago Stefanutti in 2016. 13 years in the making.

What made you start Martial Arts?

I started because I had been working weird hours for a while and saw a few unsavoury incidents on public transport while travelling home. I still train for the same reason, although today my focus is on helping others.

How did you first get involved with Absolute MMA? (What industry were you in prior to Martial Arts? What made you change?)

My first (and only other) Jiu-Jitsu academy closed down. Thiago immediately made me feel welcome on his mat and I have been ‘home’ ever since.

Favourite workout/walkout song?

Express yourself by NWA. I don’t know why, but if that comes on when we are rolling I get into a real flow.

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 grew up in country Victoria and moved to Melbourne to work. I also come from a family of Bee Keepers!

If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

My mum’s lasagna.

What were some funny/interesting/weird hobbies you had when you were a teenager?

None, but I did have an awesome 12th level Wizard in Dungeons and Dragons……

Besides martial arts, what else are you passionate about and why?

I’m passionate and fiercely protective of my family. I love them more than anything.

Who are the kind of people that you look up to and why?

I look up to people that are chasing a goal. They find the time, they put in the work. Win, lose or draw…they put in genuine effort. These people are everywhere, away from the spotlight, putting in the work.

When was the last time you did something new for the first time and what was it?

I recently went diving with my son in Bali. Being underwater kind of freaks me out.

Have you ever worked a job not in the fitness/martial arts industry? What were the highlights and lessons you learned?

I’ve worked in Banking and Finance for the past 20 years. I have learned that banking is like Martial Arts, the connection you make with people is what creates success.

If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?

That it’s all worth it.

During a Absolute MMA staff retreat a zombie apocalypse breaks out. You get separated with 3 AMMA team members. Who would be part your dream team and why?

Definitely Thiago, because with the size of his head he will kill many Zombies by head butting them. And Mo because he will keep me motivated to run for my life!

“Super chill, nice guy.” – Apryl Eppinger

“He’s the most down to earth and friendly guy you’ll ever come across. Always ready to help map out your game plan and take the time to fine tune your techniques without hesitation.”- Stephanie Scipione

“Steve Philips, the definition of sustained success and hard work.”- Stanley Huang

“When I think of Steve Phillips what comes to mind is the traditional spirit of martial arts. He is humble, kind, gracious and always willing to contribute to anyone and everyone around him. He is also dedicated to empowering people to use martial arts not only for the building of fitness, but for their own confidence. There are even some cases in which I know he has assisted people to overcome past trauma around assaults, etc. I see Steve as a mentor and as a humble giant in our gym.” – Anton Harrison-Kern

Photos: Dogs of War Photography and Thiago Stefanutti