SAMOAN UFC POWERHOUSES, THE TAFA BROTHERS BRING THEIR FIGHTING SPIRIT BACK HOME
Junior and Justin Tafa, Samoan UFC Heavyweights during their Press Conference at the Samoa Tourism Authority Fale. (Photo: Lars Gustaf Bell/ Eyespy Radio Samoa)
In a heartwarming reunion with their homeland, the Tafa brothers, renowned UFC heavyweight fighters, have made their way to Samoa. Justin and Junior Tafa, both celebrated for their knockout prowess, are back on island since pre- COVID, Samoa, the country they proudly represent on the global stage of the Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC).
The Tafa brothers' journey in the world of combat sports was influenced by their grandfather, a former national boxing champion. Growing up surrounded by tales of his success and their uncles' world kickboxing championships, the brothers were destined to embrace the fighting spirit within them.
Justin Tafa's athletic career kicked off in rugby league, where he showcased his talents playing for the Marist Saints in the junior Auckland Rugby League. He was even signed by the prestigious Melbourne Storm, a testament to his athletic prowess. However, as Justin humorously admitted during todays press conference at the STA, he soon realized that he was "better at knocking people out". This revelation led him to the UFC, a transition he has never looked back from.
Justin Tafa made his professional MMA debut at XFC 30 before making a splash with his promotional debut on October 6, 2019, at UFC 243. His reputation for delivering thunderous knockouts and his fearless approach in the octagon have earned him respect and admiration from fans worldwide.
Junior Tafa, the younger of the Tafa siblings, started his combat sports journey as a heavyweight kickboxer in the renowned Glory promotion. His exceptional striking skills and unyielding determination ultimately steered him towards mixed martial arts (MMA). Today, he competes in the UFC's heavyweight division, showcasing his striking prowess on the world stage.
Hailing from Mulifanua in Samoa, both Justin and Junior Tafa are not just content with their achievements in the UFC. They harbor a vision to inspire the youth in Samoa and foster the growth of MMA in their homeland. They are determined to see more Samoans following their footsteps and those before them, into the UFC and are committed to nurturing the sport in Samoa.
As a part of their commitment to giving back to the community, Justin and Junior Tafa have scheduled an MMA workshop titled "A TAFA MENTALITY" to be held later this week. This workshop aims to engage with the budding MMA community in Samoa, sharing their extensive knowledge, skills, and experiences while inspiring the next generation of fighters.
The Tafa brothers' journey from the rugby fields and kickboxing rings to the UFC cage is a testament to their unwavering dedication and commitment to proudly representing Samoa. Not only are they formidable fighters, but they also stand as powerful role models, carrying forward their family's legacy and inspiring a new generation of Samoan fighters to dream big and reach for the highest echelons of the mixed martial arts world.
