Brando “The Balkan Bear” Pericic: From Sleeping in His Car to Chasing UFC Gold | The Australian MMA Podcast

Australian MMA is experiencing a new wave of talent, and few fighters represent that rise better than Brando “The Balkan Bear” Pericic. In the latest episode of The Australian MMA Podcast, hosted by Mitch Tinley, Brando delivers one of the most open, powerful, and inspiring interviews you’ll hear in the sport today.

This episode dives deep into Pericic’s life, tracing his journey from humble beginnings and immense personal struggle to his first-round knockout debut at UFC Perth. It’s more than a fight story; it’s a lesson in grit, belief, and determination.

From Adelaide to the Octagon

Born in Adelaide and now fighting out of City Kickboxing in New Zealand, Brando proudly represents Australia, New Zealand, and Croatia each time he steps into the octagon. His journey has been far from easy.

On the podcast, he opens up about living in his car for 620 days and sleeping inside the gym while chasing his UFC dream

. Rather than dwell on hardship, he speaks about these moments as defining experiences that built the fighter and the man he has become.

“I moved out of the gym, into my car, then back again. It’s not a sob story — it’s just what I had to do to chase this life.”

UFC Perth: The Breakthrough Moment

When Brando Pericic made his debut at UFC Perth, he wasted no time making an impression. In front of a roaring crowd, he produced a first-round knockout that earned him a $50,000 Performance of the Night bonus

.

He tells Mitch Tinley that for the first time in years, he walked to the cage completely calm, feeling that he had already won by simply arriving on the sport’s biggest stage.

“When I walked out, I’ve never been so calm. There was no pressure on me. I just had to get to the UFC — the rest will take care of itself.”

Mental Health, Mentors, and Motivation

In one of the most compelling sections of the interview, Brando speaks candidly about mental health struggles, including a period in his life where he reached rock bottom

His honesty about recovery and rebuilding has resonated deeply with fans.

He credits fighters like Israel Adesanya and Tyson Pedro for playing pivotal roles in his turnaround, offering belief and mentorship when he needed it most.

“Izzy changed my life with a few words. He believed in me — and that sparked something inside. If I can do that for someone else, that’s my purpose.”

Eyes on the Heavyweight Title

Despite only recently entering the UFC, Pericic already has a clear roadmap. His goal is to become a UFC Heavyweight Champion by 2026 — and he’s written it down as a promise to himself.

“In 2026, I’ve got it in my notes. I’ll get into the UFC 2025, and the next thing after that is to fight for a title or an interim title in 2026. That’s the goal.”

His confidence is not arrogance; it’s belief backed by years of sacrifice and self-discipline.

Why This Episode Matters

This conversation between Brando Pericic and Mitch Tinley goes beyond fight results and training talk. It captures the human side of MMA — the sacrifices, the setbacks, and the moments that define a champion’s mindset.

Whether you’re a long-time UFC fan, a fighter yourself, or simply someone who appreciates stories of resilience, this episode will leave an impact.

Watch or listen now on YouTube and Spotify:
The Australian MMA Podcast – Brando “The Balkan Bear” Pericic: From Sleeping in His Car to the UFC

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