Category Archives: Meet the Team

Coach Livia Gluchowska, known affectionately as “Liv” or “Dear Leader” is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, 3-time BJJ World Champion, 2-time Asian Champion, 11-time Pan-Pacific Champion, 3-time Australian Champion, Abu Dhabi Pro Trials Winner and 2017 IBJJF No-Gi World Championship Silver Medallist. She will be running an intensive women-only training camp at Absolute MMA Thailand in Phuket, Thailand this October alongside fellow IBJJF World Champion Rikako Yuasa. Read on to find out more about this amazing superwoman, and don’t forget to “Liv, laugh and love”!

What made you start Martial Arts?

I retired from competitive sprint cycling and wanted a sport to do to keep fit. I started off with Muay Thai but found it boring, then tried a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class and fell in love with it.

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

I started training at Absolute MMA when I was a blue belt. It is by far the best place to train in Australia. I am a physiotherapist as well as a BJJ coach.

Who is an inspiration to you, and why?

Lachie Giles for his problem solving abilities and being a down to earth and a kind human. Many of my teammates inspire me every day.

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

Steak 🙂

What is your favorite travel destination? Why?

I loved Brazil for the training, Galapagos Islands for the nature and Isla Mujeres for the whale sharks.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I’m Polish and came to Australia when I was 12.

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

Honest, fair and self-driven 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?

Laugh at yourself, relax more and know that you can always learn a skill.

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?

Lachie because I like him, Simon because he is massive so if there was no food we could eat him and Thiago because his giant head could feed Simon, Lachie and I.

“Considering how smol she is, she should be easy to squish, but she’s strong as f***, bendy as f***, and technical as f***. It’s almost as if her Jiu-Jitsu is world class or something.
Friendly, fierce, and determined. Liv is responsible for the creation and continual growth of the women’s Jiu-Jitsu team in St Kilda, who aspire to be as strong, bendy and technical as her.
She’s probably partly responsible for them being a bit weird too..” – Hannah Gorman

“During one of my first Jiu-Jitsu classes Liv gave me some great advice that I’ve really tried to implement in my game – “Just be annoying”. Liv leads by example and is a role model for the whole club, particularly the women’s team. Watching her train every day, always trying to improve, motivates us want to do the same. Liv is like our Jiu-Jitsu mum, but cross her and she’ll crossface you!”- Sarah Chapman

“Liv is inspiring, hard working and amazingly talented! Her positive and heart warming approach to life is a simple reminder why many appreciate having her in their lives, including myself. She’s also got the most savage Cross-face ever!!” – Rob Pelle

“Our dear leader Livia has super powers – whether you were already a fan of Livia Gluchowska or not, you just become one once you get to know her. She is kind, caring, encouraging and has a huge heart! She is extremely dedicated and her work ethic & willpower are super inspiring…it just naturally rubs on to you.
Do not underestimate her size. Do not, I repeat, DO NOT let her cross face you. And if you think your guard/sweeps are feeling good, just see what you can do when she split pass you. Also do not give her your leg, she will dolphin you.
Her leadership has taken our women’s team to another level and we are incredibly lucky to be training with one of the best everyday!
Note: If you want to get into her good books, feed her food and coffee. How do you think Young became her favourite Asian out of all of us?” – Chisaki Akiyama

Registration details for Liv’s camp in October are available here:

Rikako Yuasa and Livia Gluchowska – Training Camp in Paradise!

Photo: Cfongraphy

Jeremy Wharerau is a former professional mixed martial artist with a record of 4 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw with one win coming via KO in a bout fought in America. With a yell like a drill sergeant, Jeremy pushes his students to achieve their best by threatening extra long planks or more ab exercises during his classes. While he enjoys a laugh and a bit of back and forth banter, Jeremy is all business when it comes to martial arts and his approach to the mental aspects of training and fighting have seen his students to success at all levels! Read on to find out more about Jeremy!

What would you consider your greatest achievements in Martial Arts?

“Chicago USA 2010. I was a massive underdog with an unimpressive fight record of 1-1-1 facing a 10-2 BJJ black belt on his home turf. 26 seconds into the first round I’d run over him by sinking in a RNC.”

What made you start Martial Arts?

“I found out my best mate had started training in Muay Thai. I was like “Hell no!” he was gonna know ninja shit and not me? Nope.”

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

“I was chronically accident prone as a kid, so all my memories tend to be of me getting hurt…. next question.”

Who is an inspiration to you, and why?

“Bruce Lee, no need to say why…it’s Bruce Lee.”

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

“Tyrannosaurus Rex.”

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

“Keeping tropical fish, I had a sick aquarium setup in my room before I moved to Australia.”

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

“Humble people, I find being humble so hard…because I’m so awesome.”

What movie have you seen over 5 times?

“Princess Bride.”

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

“Being that I was truly awesome in my first class, I wouldn’t say anything other than “keep being truly awesome Jeremy”. However if I could go back to my second class I’d tell myself to slow down and enjoy the journey. Don;t get hung up and frustrated by techniques you don’t pick up right away. Just enjoy the ride of learning something new and cool, journey before destination.”

“Of all the coaches we have at the gym, Jeremy is certainly one of them!” – Daniel Herbertson

“Jeremy talks a lot, and most of the time about himself. But every now and then he’s got a nugget of wisdom that he imparts that’s worth all that gab. He’s a great coach, a great dad, and a great man.”- Tina Trinh

“Although often going on tangents, deeply exploring things and explaining them with 100 words when you only need 10 – also known as ‘Jezzing’, Jeremy is one of the most passionate and invested coaches who is not afraid to punch his students in the face if required.” – Justin Bai

“One day I’ll land a takedown/submit/drop Jeremy with a body rip. On that day my life will be complete.” – Darren Gn

Coach Amit Narayan is an experienced personal trainer and strength & conditioning coach, having coached for over 4 years. A man who is determined to make his best, better, Amit has trained athletes in preparation for Martial Arts, Australian Rules Football and Gridiron Football, as well as individuals for strength and weight loss. Read on to find out more about the man, Amit…the legend!

Nicknames & Fight Names?

Captain Supa Fantastico, Mittens and (Knee) Reaper

What would you consider your greatest achievements in Martial Arts?

The time Thiago said ‘Good, Amit’.

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

I first joined Absolute MMA shortly after studying to be a Personal Trainer. My ultimate goal was always to be a Strength & Conditioning coach for combat athletes, and I wanted to expand my knowledge on combat sports by learning different martial arts. Furthermore, I wanted to experience the unique methods different coaches have to instructing and coaching.

I decided to checkout Absolute MMA due to its extensive timetable and central location (This is when the CBD was the only location). I was taken aback at first by Thiago’s welcoming attitude during my trial class, and the amount of time and instruction he gave me in my first class. That was my first class, and I haven’t looked back since.

Prior to commencing my personal training studies, I was working at ANZ. During my time there I was employed to complete training manuals and subsequently train staff. I enjoyed the aspect to instructing and teaching, but quickly realised how much more I would enjoy it if it were something I was passionate about, health and fitness.

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

The first time I ate a margarita pizza is by far my favorite memory. Molto bene.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Flying to Absolute MMA in a jet pack.

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

Being very sad, in another field.

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

Brock Lesnar, he counts, right?

What is your favorite travel destination? Why?

All Day Donuts, because every time I travel there, I come back with donuts.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I trained to be a professional wrestler as a teenager, my wrestling name was Captain Super Fantastico. I only took part in one match as a professional wrestler. I got kicked in the face, slammed on my bonce and pinned. It was amazing.

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

I often talk about my appreciation for strong, driven people. People striving to achieve their dreams and desires, is something I’ve always been drawn to. I’ve been lucky to meet and surround myself with people with goals ranging from small to global, and I’m always taken by their drive to achieve their goals.

I appreciate honest, hardworking people- that might seem an obvious choice, but is something I truly look up to. I’ve always admired an individual who can admit fault and admit when they don’t know something. It’s not a trait many people exercise, but a statement such as ‘I don’t know’ or ‘I was wrong’, can be pretty powerful.  

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

My life.

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

Train more, train harder, and sports tape is cheaper on eBay.

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 changed this question to 5 Absolute Members after consulting with Dave, these are:

Dom Vergou: Obviously
Vince Rogato: He’s my fratello, P4P Most handsome man in the gym, if the earth is to be repopulated, why wouldn’t you want these genes doing it?
Hayley Weir: Anyone who’s seen her car understands, anyone who’s heard about her fixing cars understands, anyone who’s heard her list her guns understands, anyone that’s been tapped by her understands, really this list could go on.
Maryanne Mullahy: One of the P4P strongest humans in the gym, world champion and one of the toughest people I’ve ever met. She’s also the loveliest and her art is legendary (Both the art of violence, and the art of illustration).
James ‘Jimbolinho Swolters’ Walters: Also one of the P4P strongest, THE strongest jawline, reverse sears a mean steak, and a SAVAGE.

Make no mistake, I’m the odd one out in this group, they should really leave me behind and prosper.

“Amit is a very good trainer who is always worried about his student’s form and who is focused on making people move well. He is a BJJ student, he is that guy who never puts his back on the ground…but on top he is a rock.” – Thiago Stefanutti, Coach

“I got nothing.” – Dom Vergou

“You have Amit to blame for my strength.” – Adrian Ciuffetelli

“Amit owns every UFC to date on DVD, and alphabetises everything he owns. He also will only date someone who can deadlift a car, so you can sure tell he is committed to the cause. He cares more about your lifting form than he does about his own health and well-being. All round nugget and legend.”- James Walters

“When people think of the stereotype of a strength coach, the image of an aggressive meathead who is always yelling comes to mind.  Amit, however, uses the perfect combo of humor, knowledge and passion to get his clients and athletes the strength gains they’re after.” – Darren Gn

Coach Michael “Horror Man” Hourigan from Absolute MMA St Kilda is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with 13 years of experience. Originally from New Zealand, having grown up in Rotorua, Michael is now an active competitor in Australia who has won national titles at all belt levels and competed internationally. Read on to find out more about Michael!

What would you consider your greatest achievements in Martial Arts?

Becoming the Australian National Black Belt Featherweight Champion.

What made you start Martial Arts?

Watching “Enter the Dragon”.

Favorite workout/walkout song?

Top Gun opening theme (not danger zone the one before it).

Who is an inspiration to you, and why?

Rubens Charles Maciel, Lucas Lepri, the Mendes brothers and Marcio Andre. All amazing Jiu-Jitsu athletes.

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

Medium size cat, maybe a Leopard. Great movers, but they also sleep most of the day.

What is your favorite travel destination? Why?

Southern California. I love the spacious cities, cali-mex food and constant sun.

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

Philosophy, design, learning Portuguese, economics and gymnastics.

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

Those who pursue the truth and are open to discussing ideas logically.

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

Handstands!

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

Il Bacaro, I recommend the cheesecake from the dessert menu.

What movie have you seen over 5 times?

Top Gun, Apocalypse Now, Goodfellas, Casino and the whole Godfather series.

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

John Stuart Mill’s books On Liberty and Utilitarianism.

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

Go train some form of grappling or boxing.

“Whether he’s helping people on their mat improve their BJJ technique, discussing politics post training or hanging upside down the chin-up bar, Michael will continue to be amazingly positive and welcoming. Awesome to have Michael as a coach and friend!” – Rob Pelle

“Michael Hourigan, a true gentleman and artist of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Not only does have more knowledge and talent than most; he is funny, charismatic and an all round top bloke. He’s such an asset to the gym and we’re very lucky to have him. I’m grateful of the knowledge he has passed down to me and grateful of the many rolls we have had.” – Mikael Yahaya

Accomplished Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and coach Sean “SLG” Le Gourrierec is a professional mixed martial artist who has been training and competing since 2009. Earlier on this year, Hex Fight Series 13 saw Sean secure an extremely impressive knockout against his opponent in the first 13 seconds of round 1, bringing his professional record to 5-2.This positive powerhouse has been acclaimed as the founder of skate-boxing, and always brings the good vibes with him wherever he roams!

Read on to find out more about Sean!

What would you consider your greatest achievements in Martial Arts?

Earning all my Jiu-Jitsu belts under Thiago.

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

I was an environmental scientist, and I was also studying to be a teacher. I was better at fighting.

Mantra/Quote to live by?

The purpose of work is to create. The purpose of making money is to have enough.

What is your favourite memory from when you were younger?

Getting my first BMX for my 14th birthday.

Who is an inspiration to you, and why?

Daniel Herbertson, he knows why.

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

Salmon.

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

I would be a bear, they wrestle good and nobody messes with them.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I haven’t grown since year 7.

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

I used to get my back waxed because I was self conscious. I just accept it now 🙂

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

Skateboarding. I hate riding and driving, they’re reserved for those who need to rest.

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

I can lick my elbow.

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

I ate food left handed recently, was different.

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

I was a janitor at an all girls school. I learned not to clean the windows before after school detention.

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?

Simon, he is most likely to have or know where to get a helicopter. Secondly I would pick Dan, we could give him up first. Finally, I would pick Thiago as he would still be making jokes throughout the whole thing.

“Sean loves an animal analogy more than any man I know. One of the most enthusiastic and passionate coaches out there!” – Oliver Smith

“Sean was one of my first students that I taught when I came to Australia. We have worked together for the last 8 years, and I could not ask for a better colleague and friend. He came to Brazil with me and met my family, my friends. He has become part of my family.” – Coach Thiago Stefanutti

Photos: W.L Fight Photography

Functional Strength trainer at Absolute MMA Collingwood, Natalie Stiles has over 8 years experience as a personal trainer and was previously a dental nurse for over 10 years. She loves drum and bass, and is also a former sprinter and long distance runner who moves and exercises for the love of it. Nat also runs a ladies lifting society designed for females to learn to lift weights in a supportive and like-minded community. Read on to find out more about Nat!

What made you start Martial Arts?

I wanted a form of hard exercise to do for me, that was away from my personal training clients that would push me mentally as well as physically.

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

I moved from another club when our coach Tao set up the Muay Thai program at Collingwood.

Mantra/Quote to live by?

Do it like you mean it.

Who is an inspiration to you, and why?

Mostly by the amazing and growing number of female athletes emerging in previously male dominated sports. We have one amazing one in our own club. I find the ladies who are making in big in surfing, soccer, lifting and now in the AFLW particularly inspiring.

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

Oh gosh, that’s tough, I really like to eat…..berries, berries have never let me down.

What do you like to do to relax besides training?

Get away from the city on the weekends, bush walk, train run, beach and fail at surfing, that sort of thing.

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

Whats the most cuddly? I like cuddles.

What is your favorite travel destination? Why?

Spain!!! The life style there is amazing.100% they have a really relaxed approach to life, sleep during the week, walk slow, sit down for coffee, naps! What’s not to love? Oh, and it’s really pretty there.

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

Other than “keep your hands up idiot”? When you think you are tired, you always push more.

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

People who are un-apologetically themselves, I think we sometimes spend too much time concerned with what others think about us.

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?

Hmmmm…this is hard because- do I want a killer team to fight them off, or just people I can out run so they get eaten first?  I think I’d have to pick our killer female only zombie squad, Claire Fury, Maryanne and Liv.

‘Nat has a wealth of knowledge which she has gained over years of competing at high levels of different sports such as CrossFit and Muay Thai. This has made her a fantastic trainer who knows how to motivate clients from all walks of life- she is not afraid to push them in order for them to meet their goals’ – Sam Hibberd

Lachlan Warne is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt and highly decorated as a competitor. He is a two-time Pan Pacific Champion, three-time Australian Champion, 5-time State Champion, Five Grappling Champion and NAGA Champion. Since he moved to Melbourne from Adelaide, we’ve seen this young boy grow into a handsome gentleman (compliments courtesy of Richard Lattemagi) and can’t wait to see what the rest of this year brings competition wise for him. Read on to find out a little more about Lachlan!

What would you consider your greatest achievements in Martial Arts?

The Pan Pacific Championships is the biggest tournament I have won so far. Other than that I would say being awarded my Brown belt.

What made you start Martial Arts?

Watching Dragonball Z.

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

I moved over from Adelaide after doing a few trips to train with Lachie Giles. I loved it so much, I decided to make the move over and train at Absolute MMA.

Favourite workout/walkout song?

Boogie Wonderland by Earth, Wind and Fire.

Who is an inspiration to you, and why?

I love to watch guys like Rafa Mendes, Keenan Cornelius, Romulo Barral compete. Anyone that has beaten Craig Jones really.

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

Rum and Raisin ice cream.

What is your favorite travel destination? Why?

Japan is my favourite place I have visited. It has an amazing culture and a great Jiu-Jitsu scene.

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

I also work in retail part time and use all my martial arts training to keep my cool whilst dealing with annoying customers.

What movie have you seen over 5 times?

All the Star Wars movies.

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?

Craig Jones because nothing bad ever happens to him, Mikael Yahaya because the zombies would get him first and Adam Jones because he would make it fun.

“Lachlan Warne is the silent assassin. He is a kind and gentle soul. But don’t let that fool you. He has phenomenal technique and he is an absolute savage on the mats. He is the kind of guy that you wish nothing but good things for. I’m looking forward to seeing his name pop off on the international jiu-jitsu circuit.” – Mikael Yahaya

“He’s as physically weak as he looks.” – Craig Jones 

Originally from a village in North India, our head Boxing Coach, Pradeep “The Indian Warrior” Sihag first came to Australia in 2004 to compete in the youth Commonwealth Games. He has since moved to Australia and has worked with Absolute MMA tirelessly for the last five years to form our Boxing program and help countless students develop themselves. Having boxed since the age of 12, Pradeep has a combined amateur and professional record of 144 wins, 6 losses and 1 draw. He is the WBC Asian Middleweight Champion, Pan Asian Boxing Association Middleweight Champion and Oriental Pacific Boxing Federation Asian Middleweight Champion. Read on to find out more about Pradeep!

What would you consider your greatest achievements in Martial Arts?

Winning gold medal at the world amateur boxing cup and OPBF middleweight champion

What made you start Martial Arts?

I belong to a sports family. My grand father, my father, uncles and my elder brother were all wrestlers. I spent a lot of my time playing sports when I was a kid.

Mantra/Quote to live by?

One way, one life, one dream

Who is an inspiration to you, and why?

My grand father. He was a full time farmer until he was 66 years old. Then he started training and started competing in power walking, shot-put, discus-throw and hammer-throw and became a national champion multiple times. I used to go with him for training every morning when I was a kid. He showed me how to be an optimist, and be happy and healthy in your life.

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

A honey badger, because they are good hunters and quick.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I speak 6 languages.

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

“Fake it till you make it.” – I think you don’t need to fake hard work.

Have you done other sports besides martial art and which teams/athletes are your favourite? Any funny stories?

I did compete in wrestling. I don’t have any favourite teams but my favourite athletes are Usain Bolt, Floyd Mayweather, Roger Federer, Steve Hooks and Jana Pittman.

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

Keep your hands up and head down.

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?

Simon Carson because he has military experience, Daniel Herbertson because he is a good strategist and Maryanne Mullahy for her wrestling skills.

“Pradeep helped me achieve so much in boxing, I walked into the gym with no experience and 2 years later I’m most of the things I wanted to become and working towards bigger goals with him as my coach. When you first meet Pradeep you have to have the guts to take his jokes, then the strength to do what he tells you need to do to win, then the determination to win and to never quit.” – Antonia Kay, Absolute MMA Fighter of 2017

“People often cite talent when an athlete achieves at a high level but to write off Pradeep’s outstanding career to talent alone would not be acknowledging the incredible amount of work that has lead to him being the boxer and coach that he is today. Pradeep’s unwavering focus from his training and development as both a boxer and a coach is truly remarkable and that love and dedication to boxing is now being passed on to his students. We are extremely fortunate to have him as part of our team. His vertical leap is lacking a little though, just ask any of the staff who witnessed him trying to jump a fence at the last staff retreat.” – Daniel Herbertson

One of the biggest people in the gym with a personality to match, our Muay Thai Coach Joe Boobyer started his Martial Arts journey at the age of 14 and is now an internationally recognized fighter, coach and personal trainer with a record of 37 wins from 54 fights. After meeting some of our Absolute MMA team while training and fighting in Thailand, Joe came on-board with us and brought the good vibes with him! Read on to find out more about Joe!

What would you consider your greatest achievements in Martial Arts?

Winning the WMF world title and managing to fight for years at a high international level. This allowed me to travel and compete all over the world facing some of the best fighters out there.

Mantra/Quote to live by?

“Work hard, quietly. Respect everybody for something, don’t be a dick.”

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

I 100% couldn’t pick one. Long summers growing up in the English countryside, going on adventures with the boys, to adventuring across south-east Asia for four years as a young adult…I’ve loved every minute of it.

Who is an inspiration to you, and why?

The honest working class. They get up every day, most of them don’t like their job and they do it anyway. They go out in the cold, the rain, the snow, and they work hard. That’s all they know. There’s a simple honor in that.

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

Eggs on toast.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I love puns and ‘dad jokes’ … let’s hear your best one liners!

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 England, but moved to Thailand in 2011 to pursue Muay Thai. Since then, I’ve fought some of the best fighters from around the world in multiple countries, and lived through all the chaos that comes with the martial arts lifestyle. I’ve coached in NZ, back in the UK, then again in Thailand where I met my better half (she’s Aussie) and found my way over here!

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

People with their own character and a true set of values. More and more rare these days.

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

I can control my eyes individually, and grab things properly with my toes.

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?

The three biggest BJJ guys so they go for the take-down and keep the zombies occupied and fed, while I boost outta there!

“One of the most genuine and positive people I know. Whenever he’s around, the vibe gets better.” – Rob Pelle

“Tall, funny and handsome, he’s such a dream… and not bad at Muay Thai either.” – Liam McNeill

“Joe Boobyer or “Boobsey” is a motherf***ing hoot, hardass fighter and an excellent coach/trainer. His commitment in both his coaching and training sets high standards for us all to follow. Since joining the AMMA family he has been a great addition; imparting his experience & knowledge to his students, keeping s*** real in his classes, representing the AMMA fight team and just being an all round decent bloke with an okay sense of humor. (Kidding. He is quite funny).Come in and train, meet the man and find out yourself that he is tops.” – Young Nghiem

“Joe is hands down one of the funniest, most laid back blokes I’ve had the pleasure to know.
His charisma and energy flows throughout the gym, making it an amazing, comfortable place to be – chances are he’ll sweep you off your feet. It’s an honor to work and train beside you brother!” – Imantha Alahakoon

Lachlan “Velachiraptor/Tractor” Giles is known as one of the top Aussie competitors of his generation – a reputation earned through podium placements in prestigious tournaments which include the IBJJF World No-Gi Championship, Pan Pacific Championship, Boa Super 8 and Eddie Bravo Invitational. Lachlan is also revered for his work as a grappling coach, and has aided BJJ athletes such as Livia Gluchowska and Craig Jones in their martial arts journey.

Lachlan’s high attention to detail, his incredible work ethic and his passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has made him a hugely influential person at Absolute MMA, both on and off the mats! Read on to find out more!

What would you consider your greatest achievements in Martial Arts?

“Receiving my Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, 2 X ADCC qualifier, 3X Australian representative for World Pro, 1st Australian to compete on EBI. Victories over an ADCC champion and a World Championship silver medalist.”

What made you start Martial Arts?

“Watching martial arts movies.”

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

“I disagree with “There’s no secret to getting better at jiu-jitsu, just show up”. Its definitely part of the recipe, but you have to train smart, work on your weaknesses, ask questions, and focus your training on improving particular aspects if you really want to get better.”

What do you like to do to relax besides training?

“Eat.”

Who is an inspiration to you, and why?

“Livia Gluchowska, she works so hard at improving!”

What is your favorite travel destination? Why?

“The Galapagos, because it has cool animals.”

“Lachlan Giles isn’t just a great coach and friend; he really is the perfect role model. He always stays true to himself and no matter what, he tries and wants to do the right thing. This attribute is something that I personally like about him and I believe most people would agree. His talents on the mats reflect on this too. Even though he tractors through guards and smashes most; he does it in a respectful manner.”- Mikael Yahaya

“He is smart, clever and a thinker. His ability to break down movements and teach is like nothing I have ever seen before. What I admire about Lachie is his objectiveness and fairness towards people. He is also an introvert and doesn’t like to talk much. Recently he started to simply nod instead of saying words… so when you get a verbal response you know you have done something very well (or poorly). He loves burgers and fried chicken (stay away from him when he is cutting weight). He has many nicknames – Velochiraptor, tractor, pumpkin bird, Dr Giles.”- Livia Gluchowska

Introduction contributed by Rob Pelle. Photos: Lachlan Giles, macofoto.com