Welcome to the 2024 Australian MMA Awards! These awards celebrate the incredible talent, dedication, and grit of Australians competing in the toughest and most cherished sport on the planet. It’s been a huge year, and these are my picks for the top categories.
Now, before we get started, just a reminder: this is my list. If you’ve got a problem with it, feel free to let me know where to meet you... so I can make sure to stay far away from there.
2023 Awards
Alright, let's dive in!
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Amateur of the Year: Kage Fisher 4-0 (2024: 4-0)
Kage Fisher burst onto the MMA scene in 2024, making waves in the amateur divisions. Alongside his brother, Jett Fisher—who built an impressive 9-3 amateur record before turning pro—Kage honed his skills at Primal MMA in Melbourne. True to the gym’s name, he’s never been in a boring fight.
One standout performance was his bout against Tyrone Arvann at Demolition Fight Series 15 on August 31st. It wasn’t just a high-paced war; it was one of the most thrilling fights you’ll ever see at the amateur level.
Kage isn’t just poised for an exciting career; he’s destined for greatness. While it’s early days, don’t be surprised to see him become a multiple-time champion in the professional ranks. The future is golden for this rising star.
Kage Fisher (2024: 4-0)
W - Jed Dale DEC
W - Tyrone Arvan DEC
W - Flynn O’Keeffe SD
W - Isaac Moores TKO Rd 1
2nd Place: Ran Deng 5-0 (2024: 3-0)
W - Ryan Leavey UD
W - Jahmari Weir KO/TKO Rd 2
W - Hamish Maciver KO Rd 1
3rd Place: Tomas Schellhamer 5-1 (2024: 2-1)
L - Angel Yankov
W - Dazz Kosovo’s
W - Alex Ross SUB Rd 1
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Submission of the Year: Luke Dally def Jordan Thomas via Twister Rd 2 (24/5/24 - Eternal 84)
Sometimes, awards like these need to celebrate not just the substance but the style—and Luke Dally brought both in spades in 2024. Bursting onto the Australian MMA scene, he firmly established himself as more than just “Harry Webb’s training partner”—he’s a future title contender in his own right.
At Eternal MMA 84, Luke faced Sydney martial artist Jordan Thomas and turned the tables in spectacular fashion, beating him at his own game. He pulled off an extremely rare twister submission that didn’t just make headlines—it made waves worldwide. As if that wasn’t enough, Luke outdid himself yet again with a phenomenal post-fight speech that left fans and fighters alike buzzing.
Luke Dally isn’t just one to watch—he’s one to remember.
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Knockout of the Year: Harry Webb def Abdalla Biayda via KO Rd 1 (29/03/24 - Hex FS 29)
Some knockouts are all about flash and damage; others carry deeper meaning. This one, while undeniably flashy, is rooted in its significance. Harry Webb, already on a meteoric rise, had his career trajectory supercharged on this night. Facing the #1 pound-for-pound fighter in the country for the vacant Hex Fight Series title, Webb delivered a stunning performance that left an indelible mark on Australian MMA.
With just one second left in the first round, Webb unleashed a flurry of punches on Abdalla Biyada, triggering a chain of events that would prove transformative for both fighters. For Webb, this knockout led to one of the most hyped signings in Eternal MMA history, cementing his status as one of the most exciting prospects in recent memory.
For Biyada, however, it marked a devastating turning point. Once considered a durable and promising contender, the knockout loss not only derailed his momentum but led to two more knockout defeats, effectively halting his UFC dreams and potentially ending his career.
It’s for these reasons—its dramatic impact and far-reaching consequences—that Harry Webb’s knockout earns the 2024 Australian MMA Knockout of the Year award.
Honourable Mentions:
2nd: Hunter Wilson def Beavan via KO (22/09/24 - WCCS 1)
Mario Loga def Daryl Paille via KO (11/05/24 - Beatdown Promotions 7)
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Fight of the Year: Harry Webb vs Kevin Kophamel (17/08/24 - Eternal MMA 87)
This fight is the stuff of legends—our very own Forrest Griffin vs. Stephan Bonnar moment. It’s the kind of bout you show to someone to make them fall in love with MMA.
The storyline alone could have made it Fight of the Year, but the action took it to another level entirely.Harry Webb is the most exciting prospect this sport has seen in years—a dynamite-handed, good-looking kid who seems destined for greatness. Originally scheduled to face David Martinez, a bizarre twist saw Martinez miss weight after an unfortunate run-in with a toilet (yes, you read that right).
In a last-minute scramble, Kevin Kophamel, fresh off his fight with Ethan Mitchell being canceled earlier that week, stepped up a weight class to replace Martinez.Harry accepted the fight on just six hours’ notice, determined to put on a show in front of UFC officials attending UFC 305 in Perth. All of this unfolded against the backdrop of Webb’s personal struggles, including a string of hardships and the highly publicized arson attack on his gym, Infinite MMA, in Ballarat.
What happened that night wasn’t just a fight—it was a moment etched in eternity. This was a battle that transcended wins, losses, titles, or victories. Both Kevin Kophamel and Harry Webb will carry the scars of that war forever, and their names will be remembered just as long.So, please join me in honoring the Fight of the Year, the Fight of the Decade, the Fight of the Century. A fight that will stand as a testament to the heart, grit, and indomitable spirit of MMA.
Runner Up: Jono Miscallef vs Aldin Bates
Honourable Mention:
Jack James vs Adam Cook (11/05/24 - Beatdown Promotions 7)
Randall Rayment vs Brando Pericic (04/05/24 - Hex Fight Series 30)
Tyrone Arvann vs Kage Fisher (31/08/24 - Demoltion Fight Series 15)
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Performance of the Year: Darcy Vendy def John Fraser (30/11/24 - Eternal 91)
This one carries a lot of weight, especially if you know the backstory. The long-running feud between John Martin Fraser and Darcy Vendy reached its boiling point in a barn burner MMA fans won’t soon forget.
Fraser has long been known as the fighter willing to take on anyone, anywhere, anytime. He’s come heartbreakingly close to earning a UFC contract multiple times, only to fall short against opponents with just a slightly faster trigger. Despite this, Fraser remains revered in the MMA world. A two-time Eternal MMA champion, he’s been on the cusp of UFC stardom for years.
Darcy Vendy, on the other hand, has had his name whispered in MMA circles for over a decade. The man even holds a victory over UFC’s #4-ranked welterweight, Jack Della Maddalena. While his skills have never been questioned, his mentality has been a topic of debate. Known for seemingly avoiding big fights, many wondered if he wasn’t ready—or simply wasn’t willing—to take the plunge and go all in.
Post-fight, Vendy opened up about his struggles with a victim mentality and credited his close friend, Eternal MMA ring announcer John Aiello, for helping him overcome it. The whispers were deafening, and Fraser himself had been peppering Vendy for months, calling him out and daring him to step up. To everyone’s surprise, Darcy finally did—and made fools of those who ever doubted him.
That night, Darcy Vendy delivered an absolute masterclass. He didn’t just silence John Fraser and his critics; he put them to sleep. Now, Darcy heads into 2025 with a massive scalp on his resume and looks like the hottest prospect poised to get the call from the UFC.
The fight was nothing short of masterful, but the reflection and redemption behind it? That was truly inspiring.
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Event of the Year: Eternal MMA 87 - 17th of August 2024
This event was truly special—even if it had no other fights besides the main event, which delivered the Fight of the Year. But remarkably, that wasn’t even the main event. Instead, we witnessed the crowning of a new featherweight king, Seb Szalay, in a spectacular performance.
We also got a comeback for the ages as Frank Jankowski, held down for four grueling rounds, turned the tide with a devastating knee to secure victory. Add to that violent knockouts from Jack Becker and Kaan Deatta, and you have a night to remember.
What set this event apart was its timing: the night before UFC 305 in Perth, under the brightest lights and in front of UFC officials. That stage elevated the stakes, and the fighters rose to the occasion, delivering a night that took this event to new heights.
Check it out on UFC Fight Pass
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Promotion of the Year: Eternal MMA
It’s hard to beat consistency, and Eternal MMA proves that time and time again. Despite facing strong competition at times, they’ve solidified themselves as the most consistent promotion outside of the UFC, with a clear path to get there.
Eternal MMA boasts a team of some of the best in the business, all going above and beyond to elevate their shows to the next level. Their partnership with UFC Fight Pass provides unparalleled exposure, and their relentless growth and leaps in content production demonstrate that they’re not slowing down anytime soon.
Although I'm sure, they welcome the chase...
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Promoter of the Year: Cam O’Neill
Love him or hate him, he’s the best to do it right now. In fact, he might be the best to have ever done it in this country—not just in 2024, but ever. Cam O’Neill, the mastermind behind Eternal MMA, the most consistent MMA promotion outside of the UFC, is tireless in his efforts to provide fighters with a platform to showcase their skills at the highest level.
In my humble opinion, I thought 2024 might finally see a challenger to his dominance. Newcomer Jacob Watts was making waves with Hex Fight Series before his sudden and unexplained departure. Wayne Carl was steadily chipping away at the big man with Demolition Fight Series, the best amateur fight show in the country, before he pulled the plug. Damien Brown at Beatdown Promotions stands as perhaps his only true competitor among front-and-center promoters, but at the end of the day, consistency is what matters most—and Cam delivers.
In 2024, Cam only missed one show due to unforeseen circumstances, yet even then, he was pulling the strings from his hotel room. He runs everything: the seating plans, the graphics, the venue atmosphere, the fights, the sponsorships. Like any champion, though, I believe he thrives on competition. He needs a rival to push him, test him, and bring out his very best. Unfortunately, this year, two of his biggest potential challengers left the scene.
So, the question for 2025 is: Can Damien Brown step up and challenge the throne? Or will Cam O’Neill become the first-ever three-peat winner of the Australian MMA Promoter of the Year? And how long do we have him for?
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Official of the Year: Peter Hickmott
Official of the Year has to go to the legendary Peter "The Bull" Hickmott. He is the gold standard of officiating in this country.
While there were many worthy contenders—almost like captains representing their states—Greg Klenjans in Victoria, Matt Wynn in Western Australia, and Jim Perdios, all boasting UFC and high-level experience, Peter Hickmott stands out above the rest.
Choosing an official is never an easy task, but it would feel wrong to introduce this award without honoring someone of Hickmott’s caliber as the inaugural winner. Ask any fighter, promoter, or even fan who they’d trust to make the calls in the cage, and the majority would say one name: Peter Hickmott.
Runner Up: Jim Perdios
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Coach of the Year: Romel Luistro
How do you not recognise a man who, in 2024 alone, captained the rise of two of Australia’s biggest MMA prospects to championship victories in the country’s top promotions, earned them both spots on Dana White's Contender Series, and guided them to UFC contracts? Romel Luistro isn’t just striking gold; he’s shaping it. Pressure doesn’t make diamonds it reveals them.
In 2024, Luistro played a pivotal role in bringing Cody Haddon and Quillan Salkilld to the global stage. He transformed Salkilld from a promising teenager into a world-class fighter and adopted the already-gifted Haddon, refining him into a future title contender. And that’s just two fighters.
Luistro’s 2024 resume also includes coaching 45 other fights and nurturing talents like Annie Thatcher, who’s poised to make waves on the UFC level in 2025. His impact is a testament to what can be achieved with a brilliant mind, unmatched dedication, and fighters willing to learn.
Remarkably, Luistro has no extensive fight career of his own—a fact that underscores the distinct skills required for coaching compared to fighting. The next wave of amateurs coming through his system is terrifyingly good, a reflection of the time, money, and passion he invests into their success.
Romel Luistro is the ultimate example of how elite coaching can shape the future of combat sports.
Runner Up: Miles Muecke
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Team of the Year: Luistro Combat Academy
2024 was a standout year for Luistro Combat Academy (LCA), led by the visionary coaching of Romel Luistro. The team celebrated monumental achievements, including securing UFC contracts for Cody Haddon and Quillan Salkilld, with Haddon earning his first UFC victory. Over the year, 28 LCA fighters competed in 45 bouts across 18 events in 7 cities, bringing home 2 regional belts, while 8 athletes made their amateur debuts. From MMA to Muay Thai, boxing, and Jiu-Jitsu, LCA fighters showcased their skills at every level. Rising star Annie Thatcher is one to watch in 2025, as LCA continues to thrive, fuelled by a strong community of athletes, families, and sponsors.
Runner Up: CMBT Training Centre
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Breakthrough Fighter of the Year: Marwan Rahiki 3-0 (2024 3-0)
Marwan Rahiki is as special as they come—an underrated star in the making who still feels like he’s flying under the radar. A teammate of George Magos, a soon-to-be breakout star, Rahiki possesses unlimited striking potential. It may sound like hyperbole, but he’s an Australian MMA blend of Anderson Silva and Israel Adesanya. Known as "The Rockin' Moroccan" and "Freaky Rahiki," he turned pro in 2024 and has finished all his professional bouts in the first round.
One of his standout performances came against Michael Mannu, a fighter whose results often predict future champions, which Rahiki dominated convincingly. Right now, Rahiki might be seen as the Robin to Magos’ Batman, but don’t be surprised if those roles reverse in the next few years.
If Rahiki can elevate his grappling to even a fraction of his striking, which sometimes feels like a perfect 99 rating, he could become one of the most exciting fighters Australian MMA has ever produced. Expect Rahiki to capture a regional title before moving to the next level, likely by early 2026—if not sooner.
Marwan Rahiki (2024: 3-0)
W - Michael Mannu TKO Rd 1
W - Ryan Dennis TKO Rd 1
W - Julian Giustiniano TKO Rd 1
Runner Up: Kasib Murdoch (2024: 4-0)
Kasib Murdoch
W - Jake Piper SUB (Kimura) Rd 3
W - Amir Mokhtar TKO Rd 2
W - Roy Martin Sitinjak TKO Rd 1
W - Rufino Mante TKO Rd 1
Comeback Fighter of the Year: Lachlan Stitt 4-1 (2024: 2-0)
Lachlan Stitt had a rollercoaster of a year in 2024. After suffering a devastating loss to Peter Templar in 2023 that derailed one of the biggest hype trains in Australian MMA, Stitt seemed to disappear from the scene. It was later revealed that he had been battling severe spinal injuries. However, his resilience shone through as he made an incredible comeback, defeating the notoriously tough 2022 Commonwealth Games wrestler & MMA veteran John Vake. In a surprising turn, Stitt out-wrestled the wrestler and ultimately finished him, showcasing a complete evolution of his skill set.
This victory was a full-circle moment, marking the return of a young prospect who overcame significant adversity to reclaim his place as the division’s king. Yet, in a shocking twist, Stitt announced his retirement from the sport shortly after, vacating his crown—a title many believed would lead him to the UFC in 2025.
Lachlan’s emotional and physical comeback is a testament to his grit and determination and a moment that will resonate in the sport for years to come. While we wish him all the best in his next chapter, this inspiring comeback will remain a legacy-defining achievement.
Lachlan Stitt
W - Dimitri Petridis TKO Rd 1
W - John Vake SUB (RNC) Rd 5
Runner Up: Jono Micallef 7-1 (2024: 2-1)
Jono Micallef is the runner-up for Comeback Fighter of the Year and could easily have taken the top spot. After a heartbreaking loss in a Fight of the Year candidate against Aldin Bates in March, where he was finished in the fourth round, Micallef staged an incredible comeback. Six months later, he defeated Matt Vaile to earn a shot at the UFC. He capitalized on that opportunity in dominant fashion, submitting Mohamed Ado with a first-round triangle on Dana White's Contender Series and securing a UFC contract.
It’s been a whirlwind year for Jono, who also welcomed the birth of his first child amidst his remarkable achievements. With incredible potential and momentum, Micallef is poised to continue his success into 2025 and beyond.
Jono Micallef
L - Aldin Bates TKO Rd 4
W - Matt Vaile SUB (RNC) Rd 1
W - Mohamed Ado SUB (RNC) Rd 1
Honourable Mentions:
Jospeh Larcinese def Oden Msucat via SUB (RNC) - (29/11/24 - Eternal MMA 90)
Frank Jankowski def Colton Kielbasa via SUB (RNC) - (17/08/24 - Eternal MMA 87)
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Female (Next Level) Fighter of the Year: Sara Collins 6-0 (2024: 1-0)
Sara Collins claims this award with just a single, but monumental, victory. The Resilience Training Centre standout delivered a devastating performance, taking out Leah McCourt in spectacular fashion. In doing so, she has earned herself the biggest opportunity in women’s MMA—a shot at Cris Cyborg, the undeniable boogeywoman of the sport.
Collins often flies under the radar, not receiving the recognition she truly deserves. But when she steps into the cage for a shot at gold in 2025, rest assured that the world will finally take notice of her incredible talent.
Sara Collins:
W - Leah McCourt SUB Rd 1
Runner Up: Casey O’Neill 10-2 (2024: 1-0)
W - Luana Santos UD
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Male (Next Level) Fighter of the Year: Jack Della (UFC) 17-2 (2024: 1-0)
Jack Della had a rollercoaster year in 2024, recovering from hand surgery and taking down a legend in the process. This year, Della firmly established himself as one of the best welterweights on the planet. Rumors are swirling online about a potential matchup with Leon Edwards in March, and based on his performance, it’s easy to see why.
Della’s victory over former title challenger Gilbert Burns was a defining moment. After executing a stunning reversal in a grappling exchange, he landed a perfectly timed knee to finish the fight—a truly next-level achievement. If the rumors prove true, Jack Della could be sitting atop the MMA world within the next year.
Jack Della:
W - Gilbert Burns TKO Rd 3
2nd Place: Tom Nolan 8-1 (2024: 2-0)
W - Alex Reyes UD
W - Victor Martinez TKO Rd 1
3rd: Reece McLaren (ONE FC) 18-9 (2024: 2-0)
W - Yong Hu SD
W - Jarred Brooks SD
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Australian MMA Female Fighter of the Year: Jacinta Austin 8-2 (2024: 3-0)
Jacinta Austin had just one fight on Australian soil in 2024, but it was a big one—claiming the Eternal MMA Flyweight Championship against Amena Hadaya. Long regarded as one of Australia’s most sought-after female prospects, Austin has built her reputation fighting across the globe. Known for her fearless approach and exceptional skill set, she stands out as one of the brightest talents in MMA.
The Carioti MMA standout is poised for a massive 2025, with fans eagerly hoping she will make her UFC debut at UFC 312 in her hometown of Sydney.
Jacinta Austin
W - Karolina Wojcik UD
W - Amena Hadaya UD
W - Valentina Escobar SD
Runner Up: Jamie Edenden (2024: 2-0)
W - Genah Fabian TKO Rd 3
W - Abby Montes UD
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Australian MMA Male Fighter of the Year: George Mangos 6-0 (2024: 3-0)
The Mangos is looking ripe. George Mangos is in the best shape of his young career, dominating every fight he’s been in and finishing all his opponents. The only challenge he’s faced was being briefly held down by then #1 P4P fighter Justin Van Heerden—until Mangos pulled off a spectacular flying triangle submission. He followed that up by submitting Van Heerden’s highly skilled teammate Jarrett Wilbraham and delivered a violent head-kick KO against Shoichi Tomita.
George is every manager’s dream. The proud Greek fighter from Lions Den Academy has been undefeated since the beginning of his career, combining phenomenal grappling with ever-improving striking, honed alongside 2024 Breakthrough Fighter of the Year Marwan Rahiki at the same gym.
Another Sydney standout, Mangos is heavily rumored for a UFC debut at UFC 312 in Sydney on February 9th. Even if the call-up doesn’t come, it’s only a matter of time. Should we be lucky enough to see him continue competing on the regional scene in 2024, it will be a moment to savor. Mark my words: George Mangos will be in the UFC by 2025.
George Mangos:
W - Justin Van Heerden SUB (Flying Triangle) Rd 3
W - Jarrett Wilbraham SUB (RNC) Rd 2
W - Shoichi Tomita KO Rd 1
2nd Place: Harry Webb 5-0 (2024: 2-0)
Harry Webb:
W - Abdalla Biayda KO Rd 1
W - Kevin Kophamel UD
3rd: Seb Szalay 7-1 (2024: 2-0)
W - Gabriel Schlupp UD
W - Dimps Gillies UD
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That wraps up the 2024 Australian MMA Awards! It’s been an interesting and exciting year filled with incredible changes. We’ve watched fighters rise to the next level, overcome adversity, and deliver some of the best action this sport has seen in years.
From everyone here at Australian MMA, we wish you an amazing New Year and can’t wait to see you in 2025. In the meantime, enjoy a look back at some of our best moments from 2024!
2024 Honorary Australian MMA Interview of the Year: Ben Vickers
In a truly pivotal moment for Australian MMA, 2024’s highest-rated interview brought together Eternal MMA co-director and Australian MMA host, Mitchell Tinley—formerly an Eternal MMA ring announcer—for an unfiltered and candid discussion about the current state of mixed martial arts. The conversation not only mended bridges but also offered a deep dive into their differing perspectives. Both left the table with newfound respect for one another, and the interview has since become the talk of the MMA community, setting a benchmark that’s proven hard to surpass.
