With UFC Perth on the horizon, Ben Vickers is adamant that Tai “Bam Bam” Tuivasa can halt his six-fight losing streak and reignite his bid for the UFC heavyweight crown. As Tuivasa prepares to face Louie Sutherland on May 2 at Perth’s RAC Arena, his coach insists a revamped game plan and renewed motivation are the perfect ingredients for a career-defining turnaround.
Ben Vickers’ bold prediction for ‘Bam Bam’
Despite Tuivasa’s recent string of setbacks, Vickers – head coach alongside Jack Della Maddalena at Scrappy MMA – is unshaken. He believes Tuivasa’s raw power and improved technical work could see him tear through the heavyweight ranks. According to Vickers, the Australian slugger has sharpened his footwork and striking combinations in camp, laying the groundwork for a potential surge toward another title shot.
Training and tactical tweaks in Perth camp
Tuivasa relocated to Perth weeks ago to fine-tune his craft under Vickers’ watch. The duo have emphasised boxing drills, defensive movement and cardio conditioning to complement ‘Bam Bam’s’ notorious knockout ability. Vickers says the change in routine has restored Tuivasa’s confidence, with the heavyweight now focusing on outlasting opponents rather than trading bombs from the opening bell.
Heavyweight title implications and legacy stake
A victory over Sutherland would snap Tuivasa’s drought dating back to his UFC 271 stoppage win against Derrick Lewis, which once propelled him toward a potential eliminator bout with Ciryl Gane. With champions such as Jon Jones and Ciryl Gane currently dominating the top spot, a mid-tier contender could emerge should Tuivasa rediscover his form. Vickers argues that a dominant performance in Perth could thrust ‘Bam Bam’ back into the heavyweight title conversation.
As fight night approaches, all eyes will be on Tuivasa’s evolution inside the Octagon. If Vickers’ faith proves justified, the Australian bruiser could be on course for the career resurgence fans have longed to see.
FAQ
When is Tai Tuivasa fighting at UFC Perth?
Tuivasa faces Louie Sutherland on May 2 at the RAC Arena in Perth. The bout opens the main card in a back-to-back heavyweight showcase.
Who coaches Tai Tuivasa?
Ben Vickers, head coach at Scrappy MMA alongside Jack Della Maddalena, leads Tuivasa’s training camp and has overseen his recent tactical adjustments.
What’s at stake for Tuivasa with a win?
A victory would end his six-fight skid and potentially set up another title eliminator, pushing ‘Bam Bam’ back into contention for the UFC heavyweight championship.
Who has Tai Tuivasa beaten in his last UFC victory?
Tuivasa’s most recent Octagon triumph came at UFC 271, where he knocked out Derrick Lewis to extend his winning streak to five and earn a shot at Ciryl Gane.
