Tai Tuivasa Bam Bam

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Fighter bio

Tai Tuivasa – General Profile

Tai "Bam Bam" Tuivasa is an Australian heavyweight fighter in the UFC, widely known for his knockout power, charismatic personality, and signature post-fight celebration—the shoey, where he drinks beer from a shoe. Born on March 16, 1993, in Sydney, Australia, Tuivasa has become a fan favorite thanks to his walk-off knockouts, brawling style, and down-to-earth nature.

Of Samoan and Aboriginal descent, Tuivasa proudly represents his heritage every time he steps into the Octagon.

MMA Career

Tuivasa began his professional MMA career in 2012 and quickly made a name for himself with a series of first-round finishes. He made his UFC debut in 2017 and immediately impressed with a flying knee knockout of Rashad Coulter. He went on to notch victories over fighters like Cyril Asker, Andrei Arlovski, Stefan Struve, and Augusto Sakai.

Though he experienced a setback with a string of losses in 2019, Tuivasa rebounded with a strong winning streak that included a highlight-reel knockout of Derrick Lewis in 2022, one of the biggest wins of his career. That resurgence cemented him as a legitimate threat in the heavyweight division.

Despite some recent losses against top contenders, Tuivasa remains a dangerous striker who can end a fight at any moment.

Personal Life

Tai Tuivasa grew up in western Sydney in a large family, where he was exposed to both rugby and fighting from a young age. He played professional rugby before transitioning to MMA full-time. He trains primarily out of Sydney but has also done camps abroad to sharpen his skills.

Outside the cage, Tuivasa is known for his humor, authenticity, and love of celebrating with fans. His "shoey" ritual has become iconic and is often replicated by fans worldwide. He embraces his roots and frequently speaks about representing Polynesian and Indigenous communities on the global stage.

Fighting Style

Tuivasa is a powerful brawler who relies on boxing, heavy leg kicks, and sheer toughness. He’s aggressive from the opening bell and often seeks to overwhelm opponents with pressure and volume. With excellent timing and fight IQ, he frequently catches opponents with counters or looping hooks.

While grappling has historically been a weakness, Tuivasa has worked to round out his game, focusing on takedown defense and conditioning to stay competitive in deeper waters against more well-rounded opponents.

Recent Developments

As of 2025, Tuivasa remains a top-10 UFC heavyweight. While his recent run has had ups and downs, his fan appeal and knockout potential ensure he remains a major draw for UFC events around the world.

With his mix of raw power, heart, and personality, "Bam Bam" continues to be one of the most entertaining and beloved fighters in the sport.