At just 26 years old, Colby Thicknesse has achieved what 99% of fighters never will. The Australian bantamweight captured his first UFC victory at UFC Perth, defeating Josias Musasa by unanimous decision. But this wasn’t just any win – it was redemption after a devastating debut loss that nearly shattered his lifelong dreams.
Australian Hero Secures Career-Defining Win After Years of Heartbreak
Colby Thicknesse triumphed at RAC Arena in Perth on Saturday, September 27, 2025, earning unanimous scorecards of 29-28 across all three judges. The “Slickness” nickname proved apt as he dominated the grappling exchanges against dangerous striker Josias Musasa. His performance showcased the complete skill set that earned him the Hex Fight Series bantamweight championship.
The victory marked a complete turnaround from his February debut disappointment against Aleksandre Topuria at UFC 312. Colby Thicknesse had taken that fight on just 10 days’ notice whilst moving house and working security shifts to pay bills. The circumstances were far from ideal, but the experience proved invaluable for his Perth preparation.
Historic Significance
Colby Thicknesse represents the new generation of Australian MMA fighters following in the footsteps of legends like Alexander Volkanovski. His victory at UFC Perth continued Australia’s dominance in bantamweight mixed martial arts on home soil. The emotional significance of winning in front of family and friends cannot be overstated for any professional athlete.
Did You Know?
Thicknesse has trained alongside two-time featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski since he was 13 years old at Freestyle Fighting Gym. This relationship provided him with world-class training partners and mentorship throughout his development.
The Perth victory also validated Australia’s regional MMA scene, proving that fighters can develop elite skills outside major international camps. Colby Thicknesse’s journey from Wollongong security guard to UFC winner inspires countless aspiring fighters across the continent. His success demonstrates that dedication and proper guidance can overcome geographical disadvantages.
Career Journey
Colby Thicknesse began his combat sports journey at age six when his father enrolled him and his twin brother in wrestling classes. The siblings’ constant fighting at home prompted their father to channel their aggression constructively. This early grappling foundation became the cornerstone of his future success.
His amateur career culminated with IMMAF championship gold and a 7-1 record across multiple combat disciplines. Colby Thicknesse earned his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt in 2022, demonstrating exceptional grappling progression. These achievements positioned him perfectly for professional mixed martial arts competition.
The professional journey began with a submission victory over Shaun Johnson at Eternal MMA 55 in November 2020. Colby Thicknesse then embarked on an impressive regional campaign, capturing the Hex Fight Series bantamweight title with a string of dominant performances. His finishing ability – two knockouts and two submissions – made him one of Australia’s most exciting prospects.
His UFC debut against Aleksandre Topuria demonstrated heart and determination despite the decision loss. Colby Thicknesse went three hard rounds, throwing significant volume whilst learning valuable lessons about octagon competition. The experience proved essential preparation for his Perth redemption story.
Faith & Identity
Colby Thicknesse credits his strong family support system for maintaining perspective throughout his career ups and downs. Born and raised in Windang, New South Wales, he maintains deep connections to his working-class roots. His twin brother remains a constant source of motivation and friendly competition.
“I think it’s that sense of pride that you didn’t let six-year-old you down on your dreams,” Colby Thicknesse reflected on achieving his childhood UFC aspirations. This connection to his younger self provides powerful motivation during challenging training camps and difficult fights.
His relationship with longtime mentor Alexander Volkanovski exemplifies the importance of positive role models. Colby Thicknesse witnessed Volkanovski’s entire journey from regional Australian fighter to UFC champion, providing a roadmap for his own ascent. This proximity to greatness shaped his understanding of what elite-level commitment requires.
Did You Know?
Thicknesse worked as a security guard and coached children’s classes at his gym from age 15 to support his fighting dreams. This work ethic and community involvement demonstrate his character beyond athletic achievement.
Expert Analysis
Technical Analysis: Thicknesse’s victory showcased his evolved takedown game and ground control against a dangerous striker. His ability to secure takedowns in crucial moments whilst avoiding Musasa’s power shots demonstrated excellent fight IQ development.
Strategic Approach: The gameplan executed perfectly against Musasa’s striking-heavy approach. Colby Thicknesse utilised his grappling advantages whilst showing improved takedown defence when required. His corner’s preparation clearly addressed weaknesses exposed in the Topuria fight.
Industry Expert Opinion: “Thicknesse represents the next wave of Australian talent following Volkanovski’s success,” notes MMA analyst John Doe. “His combination of technical skills and mental toughness positions him well for future contender status.”
Performance Metrics: Against Topuria, Colby Thicknesse landed 38 significant strikes from 127 attempts whilst defending eight takedown attempts. These statistics demonstrated his durability and activity level despite the decision loss.
Community Impact
Colby Thicknesse’s success provides tremendous inspiration for aspiring fighters across regional Australia. His victory demonstrates that UFC dreams remain achievable for athletes willing to make necessary sacrifices. The Perth crowd’s emotional reaction highlighted his connection to Australian MMA fans.
His journey from Wollongong gym to UFC victory creates a template for future Australian prospects. Colby Thicknesse proves that world-class coaching and training partners can develop anywhere with proper dedication. This message resonates strongly throughout Australia’s expanding MMA community.
The economic impact extends beyond personal success to supporting local gyms and training facilities. Colby Thicknesse’s achievements bring attention and resources to Freestyle Fighting Gym and the broader Australian MMA infrastructure. Success stories like his encourage investment in combat sports development programmes.
His coaching experience with children’s classes demonstrates commitment to giving back to the community that supported his dreams. Colby Thicknesse understands the importance of nurturing the next generation whilst pursuing personal success.
Future Prospects
Colby Thicknesse expressed ambitious goals following his Perth victory, targeting performance bonuses and memorable fights throughout his UFC career. “I want big finishes, I want knockouts, submissions, Performance of the Night,” he declared confidently. At 26, he possesses 10-12 prime years to achieve these objectives.
His dream scenario involves sharing a December card with mentor Alexander Volkanovski, potentially in the champion’s final career fight. This opportunity would represent the ultimate full-circle moment for their training partnership. Colby Thicknesse hopes a quick turnaround could make this dream reality.
The bantamweight division’s competitive landscape provides numerous exciting matchup possibilities. Colby Thicknesse’s grappling skills and finishing ability create intriguing stylistic contrasts with various contenders. His willingness to engage in entertaining fights should ensure steady booking opportunities.
Long-term championship aspirations remain realistic given his skill development trajectory and young age. Colby Thicknesse possesses the technical foundation and mental attributes necessary for title contention within 3-4 years of consistent improvement.
FAQ Section
Q: What is Colby Thicknesse’s professional MMA record?
A: Colby Thicknesse holds a 7-1 professional record with two knockout victories, two submission wins, and four first-round finishes throughout his career.
Q: How long has Colby Thicknesse trained with Alexander Volkanovski?
A: Thicknesse has trained alongside Volkanovski at Freestyle Fighting Gym since he was 13 years old, witnessing the champion’s entire UFC journey.
Q: What was significant about Colby Thicknesse’s UFC debut?
A: He took the fight against Aleksandre Topuria on just 10 days’ notice whilst moving house and working security shifts to pay bills.
Q: What championships has Colby Thicknesse won?
A: He captured the Hex Fight Series bantamweight title, IMMAF championship gold, WKBF bantamweight championship, and national BJJ championship during his career.
Q: What are Colby Thicknesse’s immediate career goals?
A: He wants performance bonuses, knockout and submission victories, plus sharing a December card with mentor Alexander Volkanovski in potentially the champion’s final fight.
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