January 21, 2026
Alastair Volders: Absolute MMA Prospect Continues Undefeated Rise on ONE Championship
Alastair Volders is quietly emerging as one of Australia’s most exciting MMA prospects. Fighting out of Absolute MMA, the undefeated lightweight sits at 5–0 as a professional, with four finishes and growing international experience on ONE Championship.
Ahead of his latest bout at ONE Friday Night Fights at Lumpinee Stadium, Volders joined Mitchell Tinley on Australian MMA to discuss his rapid rise, life inside one of Australia’s toughest gyms, and what it’s really like fighting overseas against elite, often unfamiliar opposition.
Making a Statement on the International Stage
Volders’ breakout moment came in Bangkok, where he scored a highlight-reel head kick knockout against Asadbek Erkenov on ONE Championship. Fighting at the historic Lumpinee Stadium, in front of passionate Thai fight fans, was a career-defining experience.
“It was my first big international show, and to get a win like that was special. Having the team there and celebrating together afterwards made it even better.”
That moment confirmed what many inside Absolute MMA already knew — Volders belongs on the international stage.
Absolute MMA: Earning Respect the Hard Way
Training out of Absolute MMA, Volders is surrounded by elite fighters and coaches, including Joseph Luciano, Jack Jenkins, Andy Colgrave, Lisa Kyriacou, and Sara Collins. While the gym is known for its relaxed exterior, earning genuine respect inside the room takes time.
“After my second pro fight, I felt like I really became one of the boys. Every fight since then, that feeling’s just grown.”
Volders credits the environment for sharpening every aspect of his game, particularly his composure under pressure and ability to adapt mid-fight.
Training Camps and Tough Rounds
Preparing for international opponents isn’t always straightforward. With limited notice and opponents who often come from completely different styles and backgrounds, Volders focuses on building a flexible skillset rather than obsessing over one opponent.
“I usually have a loose game plan. The fight’s too dynamic to overthink it. You plan the opening, then you just fight.”
Training rounds with teammates like Jack Jenkins and Joseph Luciano keep standards high, while coaches like Andy Colgrave ensure technical precision across striking and grappling.
Fighting on ONE Championship: Opportunity and Reality
ONE Championship provides global exposure — but it also comes with unpredictability. Fight announcements are often late, promotion is minimal, and fighters are expected to be ready at short notice.
“People don’t even know I’m fighting until a couple of days before. I’ll just tell people, ‘Yeah, Friday.’ And they’re shocked.”
Despite that, Volders remains grateful for the opportunity to compete on one of the world’s biggest stages.
“I get flown to Thailand to fight in a historic stadium. Win, lose or draw, I’m living my dream.”
Currently competing on one-fight deals, Volders is taking his career step by step, open to returning to ONE Championship or pursuing opportunities back in Australia.
Life Outside the Cage
When he’s not fighting internationally, Volders lives in Melbourne, where he balances full-time training with coaching at Absolute MMA. He runs beginner and intermediate classes, helping introduce new athletes to the sport while continuing to develop his own skills.
“Coaching’s rewarding, but beginner jiu-jitsu is tough. Everyone knows what a punch is — not everyone knows what inverted half guard is.”
Despite the grind of weight cuts, teaching, and travel, Volders remains grounded and focused on long-term growth.
What’s Next for Alastair Volders?
At just 5–0, Volders knows bigger fights are coming — whether that’s:
- A title opportunity in Australia
- A longer-term deal with ONE Championship
- Or further international bouts against ranked opposition
For now, his mindset stays simple.
“I’ve always had a loose plan. Opportunities come up, and I take them.”
With elite training partners, international experience, and composure beyond his years, Alastair Volders is a name Australian MMA fans should be paying close attention to.
