Tai ‘Bam Bam’ Tuivasa may have already made waves as a renowned UFC heavyweight fighter but now he’s taking his next challenge to a new arena – reality television.
Transitioning from the octagon to the adventure of The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition, Tuivasa is joined by his brother Logan as they journey across South America, South Africa, and Asia for their chance at taking home $100,000 for the Sydney Region Aboriginal Corporation.
After bringing their fighting spirit (and expert dance moves) to the first leg of their journey, fans are eager to learn more about their fan-favourite competitors.
Who is Tai Tuivasa?
Tai Tuivasa is a 31-year-old professional mixed martial artist from Sydney, New South Wales.
Making his professional debut in 2012, Tuivasa climbed the ranks of the MMA world before signing a multi-fight deal with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
Taking to the UFC octagon for the first time in November 2017, Tuivasa secured a knockout victory over Rashad Coulter, which quickly made him a rising star of the sport thanks to his striking power and aggressive fighting style.
Does Tai Tuivasa have children?
Outside the world of UFC, Tai Tuivasa shares one seven-year-old son with former partner Brierly Pedro.
While the sports star has kept the details of his son’s life largely out of the spotlight, the 31-year-old offered a rare glimpse into their relationship during a pre-fight interview with ESPN.
“Becoming a father is probably the reason why I’m here. He’s a lot like me. He’s not shy, that’s for sure!”
“A few weeks ago, my son told me that I wasn’t really a good fighter because I don’t have the [championship-winning] belt. Now, I can’t stop thinking about the belt.”
What’s next for Tai Tuivasa?
Beyond his career in the octagon, Tai Tuivasa also hosts The Halfcast Podcast alongside fellow UFC star Tyson Pedro and former rugby league player Andrew Fifita.
The UFC fighter has also ventured into the world of beer, launching the Drink West Brewery alongside Tyson Pedro and Penrith Panthers star Nathan Cleary.