The Australian MMA Podcast · Australian MMA Productions

Justin Van Heerden on Jesse Swain at Eternal 102, Training With Volkanovski & Chasing the UFC Dream

·32 min·2 clips

Justin Van Heerden felt disrespected when a 2-0 fighter offered to fight him, sparking his determination to dominate.

This episode features host Vince Tindley interviewing veteran Australian MMA fighter Justin "Lockjaw" Van Heerden ahead of his bout at Eternal MMA 102. Van Heerden is a former number-one pound-for-pound fighter in Australia with nearly 30 professional fights who trains at Freestyle MMA alongside UFC champion Alexander Volkanovski. He discusses his upcoming fight against the 2-0 prospect Jesse Swain, which he initially viewed as disrespectful when the match offer arrived. Van Heerden details his daily training environment, regularly sparring with elite fighters like Volkanovski, Dan Hooker, Jamie Mullarkey, and visiting star Marif "Ruffy" Piraev. He reflects on his recent active year with five fights, including a controversial decision loss in China and a knockout loss to George Mangos. The fighter analyzes his motivation at age 32, balancing his career with a relationship, and his evolving perspective on a potential UFC call-up. Van Heerden admits the UFC dream may not be in the cards but stays ready for any opportunity following impressive performances. He shares insights from sparring with Piraev, noting the value of exchanging skills with world-class strikers and grapplers. Van Heerden recounts Swain's criticism of his striking power, which he sarcastically dismisses while issuing a warning. He describes the culture at Freestyle MMA under coach Joe Lopez as collaborative yet demanding, with no time to dwell on past fights. The tone is casual and conversational, filled with candid reflections and humorous banter between the host and guest. Listeners interested in the Australian MMA scene, fighter psychology, and gym culture behind elite teams will enjoy this episode. Those seeking highly technical fight analysis or breaking news might find the discussion too broad.

As heard by us

A straight fight-week profile of an experienced Aussie still pushing for the next step.

This piece keeps its focus on Justin Van Heerden at Eternal MMA 102 in Sydney and lets the fight feel immediate: a veteran with close to 30 pro bouts, an Australian MMA title, and the UFC question still hanging over him.

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Why you'd press play

Want a grounded Aussie MMA chat with a fighter who's been around the block?

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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