Where do you train? Padstow PMA Super Martial Arts

What are your strengths as a fighter? I believe I’m a well-rounded fighter, winning fights on the ground and on my feet. I’m versatile and can let off a lot of pressure and energy in small bursts.

Why do you think you’ve made it into The Smashes? I’m one of the best Australia has to offer.

How / why did you start training in MMA? I’ve been practicing martial arts for the most part of my life. I started training in karate and after eight years I moved into Hapkido. The Hapkido school where I was training changed into a MMA gym, so I also transitioned.

How long have you been training in MMA? 5-6 years.

Why do you love MMA? MMA is a great sport. I love the adrenaline when fighting and the glory when your hand is raised. I love the idea of beating some other person who's trying to beat me - and it's just great fun.

Why do you think you will be the next Ultimate Fighter? I've got more than what it takes to be the next Ultimate Fighter. This is my chance to make what I love doing my lifestyle, as my career, as my job, to provide for my family.

Do you think the Australia / UK rivalry is going to affect the competition? It's a great honour for me to represent my country in this competition and I think all the other Australians feel the same way. I believe any Australian who puts on the green and gold just feels an instinctive urge to defend their country. I think national pride will play a huge role in this series because Australians are naturally competitive and so are the British.

Do you have any heroes? My father – Jack Whittaker. He’s a very patient, strong, determined, immensely strong man who has always been there for me.

What would a contract to fight in the UFC mean to you? Everything, fighting is my life. It’s the biggest opportunity a fighter can have.

Can you tell us about your family? Quite a disciplined family.

Can you tell us about your previous fights? I’ve just come off a loss fighting for the championship belt in Australia. The fight went the full five rounds and the decision didn’t go my way. It was a tough fight. I feel I can grow after every fight, I take something with me whether it’s my own strengths or weaknesses.

How do you rate your chances in The Smashes? 100%

What are you most excited about now that you’re in The Ultimate Fighter? The next fight, growing and becoming the best.

Who is / are your favourite UFC fighter/s? Georges St Pierre because he’s a warrior and Anderson Silva.

Anything unusual / quirky that you would like people to know about you?
•    I’m into online gaming and am at level 68 of World Of War Craft.