Australia has become a breeding ground for world-class MMA talent, producing fighters who dominate the UFC and other global promotions. While established names like Alexander Volkanovski and Robert Whittaker continue to make headlines, a new generation of Australian fighters is emerging, ready to leave their mark on the international stage. As 2026 approaches, here’s a closer look at the rising Australian MMA stars to watch.
1. Jack Della Maddalena
Jack Della Maddalena has already begun carving out a legacy in the UFC welterweight division. Known for his aggressive striking and knockout power, Della Maddalena combines technical skill with relentless forward pressure, making him one of the most exciting fighters in Australia today.
Why He’s a Star:
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UFC Welterweight Champion as of 2025
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Highly entertaining fight style with a focus on striking finishes
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Growing fan base thanks to charisma and in-cage performances
Della Maddalena represents the next wave of Australian talent capable of competing with the very best in the UFC, and he’s expected to be a dominant figure in 2026.
2. Maki Pitolo
Hailing from Western Australia, Maki Pitolo has been steadily climbing the UFC ranks in the middleweight division. Known for his toughness and willingness to engage in exciting stand-up battles, Pitolo is gaining recognition for his high-paced fights and durability.
Key Strengths:
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Unrelenting pace and high cardio
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Strong striking combinations and knockout potential
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Resilience and ability to absorb punishment
Pitolo’s dedication and entertaining style make him a fighter to watch, especially as he continues to develop his ground game and refine his overall strategy.
3. Casey O’Neill
At just 24 years old, Casey O’Neill has already made waves in the UFC women’s strawweight division. Her grappling and submission skills, combined with striking efficiency, make her a well-rounded threat in any matchup.
Career Highlights:
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Rising contender in UFC strawweight division
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Balanced skill set with both striking and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
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Rapid development and adaptability inside the octagon
O’Neill’s combination of youth, skill, and tactical intelligence positions her as one of the most promising female fighters in Australia heading into 2026.
4. Tai Tuivasa
While already a fan favorite, Tai Tuivasa continues to rise in popularity and influence in the UFC heavyweight division. Known for his explosive knockouts and larger-than-life personality, Tuivasa appeals to both hardcore MMA fans and mainstream audiences.
Why He Stands Out:
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Heavyweight contender with KO power in nearly every fight
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Iconic post-fight celebrations that resonate with fans
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Increasing media presence and mainstream recognition
Tuivasa’s combination of skill and charisma ensures he will remain a prominent Australian MMA figure in 2026, drawing attention both inside and outside the octagon.
5. Tyson Pedro
A light heavyweight with a strong wrestling background, Tyson Pedro is steadily building momentum in the UFC. Known for his grappling and submission abilities, Pedro is improving his striking game and adapting to the ever-evolving competition in his division.
Key Attributes:
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High-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and submission skills
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Improving stand-up striking
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Tactical fighter with a focus on control and efficiency
Pedro’s continued development suggests that 2026 could be a breakout year for him as he positions himself as a serious contender in the light heavyweight ranks.
6. Liam McKeown
Liam McKeown represents one of Australia’s most exciting prospects in the featherweight division. With a well-rounded game and a knack for exciting finishes, McKeown is poised to make waves as he gains more experience in the UFC.
Strengths:
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Combination of striking and grappling versatility
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Quick adaptation to opponents’ styles
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Ability to finish fights decisively
McKeown embodies the qualities of a modern MMA fighter: athletic, strategic, and capable of delivering thrilling fights for fans.
7. Jessica-Rose Clark
Veteran Jessica-Rose Clark continues to make an impact in the UFC women’s bantamweight division. Known for her power striking and toughness, Clark has consistently challenged top opponents, making her a fighter to watch in the coming year.
Highlights:
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Well-rounded striking with knockout potential
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Experience against international competitors
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Mentorship role for younger Australian fighters
Clark’s continued evolution and experience make her a critical figure for the growth of Australian women’s MMA heading into 2026.
Why Australia Continues to Produce MMA Stars
Several factors contribute to Australia’s consistent emergence of MMA talent:
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Strong Martial Arts Infrastructure: MMA gyms, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academies, boxing clubs, and wrestling programs provide a solid foundation for fighters.
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Cross-Disciplinary Athleticism: Many Australian fighters transition from sports like rugby, boxing, and wrestling, giving them a competitive edge.
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Resilient and Fearless Culture: Australian fighters are known for their toughness, adaptability, and willingness to face elite opponents head-on.
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Global Exposure: Competing in international promotions and training camps allows Australian fighters to develop skills that are competitive on a global level.
These factors combine to ensure that Australia remains a significant player in the international MMA scene.
What to Expect in 2026
The landscape of Australian MMA in 2026 looks brighter than ever. Rising stars like Jack Della Maddalena, Casey O’Neill, and Maki Pitolo are ready to challenge established names, while fan favorites like Tai Tuivasa continue to draw mainstream attention.
Australian fighters are likely to remain competitive across multiple weight divisions, bringing exciting matchups to the UFC calendar. With increasing media coverage, digital engagement, and international interest, Australian MMA will continue to gain recognition as a breeding ground for elite talent.
Final Thoughts
The next generation of Australian MMA fighters is poised for global recognition. From Della Maddalena’s explosive striking to O’Neill’s grappling finesse, these athletes represent the future of MMA in Australia. They are not only skilled competitors but also ambassadors for the sport, inspiring a new wave of fans and athletes.
As 2026 approaches, keep an eye on these rising stars. Their performances in the octagon will not only shape the UFC’s future but also solidify Australia’s reputation as a powerhouse of MMA talent. For fans, analysts, and aspiring fighters alike, the upcoming year promises thrilling bouts, breakout performances, and unforgettable moments.
