Australian · Bankstown, Australia · Born 16 March 1993Australian heavyweight known for viral shoey celebrations and holding the UFC heavyweight division's longest losing streak.
Tai Anthony Tuivasa was born on 16 March 1993 in Sydney, Australia, to an Indigenous Australian (Wiradjuri) mother and a Samoan father, and grew up in the western Sydney suburb of Mount Druitt with 11 siblings, predominantly playing rugby league in his youth and signing with the Sydney Roosters in 2010. Tuivasa gave up his rugby league career after developing a gambling addiction, turning instead to mixed martial arts, and became known as "Bam Bam" for his explosive punching power, training with Sydney's Australian Kickboxing Academy affiliate before later joining the American Kickboxing Academy in California. Tuivasa became a fan-favourite heavyweight in the UFC, renowned for celebrating victories by drinking beer from his own boot, known as a "shoey," a ritual that became one of the most recognisable traditions in modern MMA. Tuivasa has continued competing at the top level of the UFC heavyweight division, and remains one of the most popular Australian fighters on the roster, his colourful personality and heavy-handed style making him a consistent box-office draw.
'Shoey' celebration ritual; explosive heavyweight knockout artist
How They Played
Tuivasa is primarily a striker who relies on his powerful hands and knockout ability. He possesses excellent timing and counter-punching skills, often looking to end fights with explosive combinations. His aggressive, forward-pressure style makes him an exciting fighter who consistently delivers entertaining performances.
Lasting Impact
Popular heavyweight striker who brought entertaining fighting style and unique celebrations to UFC
Career Honours
- AFC Heavyweight Champion, one time
- tied for 4th-most consecutive UFC knockouts (5)
- longest losing streak in UFC heavyweight history (7)
Australian Athletes