June 11, 2025
Joseph Luciano Eyes Statement Win at PFL Nashville as PFL Australia Gains Momentum
Australian MMA standout Joseph Luciano is set for his next big test under the Professional Fighters League (PFL) banner, taking on Sarek Shields at PFL Nashville on June 12 (June 13 10:30am AEST). The bout will air live in Australia via Stan Sport, giving local fans front-row access to one of the country's most active international fighters.
The Road to PFL: Luciano's Consistency and Commitment
Luciano, based out of Victoria but currently stationed in Nashville, Tennessee, enters fight week locked in and laser-focused. While some fighters struggle with the grind of weight cuts and international travel, Luciano embraces the discomfort, a sign of his maturity and experience.
“I’ve done so many of these now that it’s gotten easier with age,”
Luciano told the Australian MMA Podcast.
“It’s about discipline and having the right people around me.”
That discipline includes working closely with renowned dietician, Jack Doherty, a trusted figure in Luciano’s corner, along with elite support from coaches and dieticians during camp.
Staying Active: Why Luciano is Becoming a PFL Favourite
While some PFL signees have voiced frustration over inactivity, Luciano has been one of the league’s most frequently featured names.
“I’ve taken fights on two weeks’ notice, even one day’s notice,”
he said.
“When you’re down for the business, I think they look after you.”
That reliability, combined with his gritty fighting style and calm persona under the bright lights, has seen Luciano emerge as a valuable asset for the PFL, and a key ambassador for PFL’s expansion into Australia.
Representing Australia on the Global Stage
Luciano’s profile has steadily risen through his appearances at media events, including a PFL Australia press conference that highlighted the league’s ambitions in the region.
“I've been doing MMA for half my life, and I meant everything I said about opportunities for fighters,”
he explained.
“PFL bringing the league to the Pacific is a massive step.”
While other promotions have failed to deliver on promises of Australian expansion, Luciano believes PFL has the infrastructure to make it work, citing successful launches in Africa, Europe, and of course, North America.
Can PFL Australia Deliver?
There’s been buzz around PFL Australia potentially running up to six events a year, a goal Luciano describes as “ambitious but exciting.”
“Even three local shows and one international would be a massive win for the Aussie scene,”.
Luciano highlighted the importance of local opportunities, especially when events are available for free on platforms like Stan Sport, helping build the next generation of Aussie MMA talent.
Preview: Joseph Luciano vs Sarek Shields
Set to face Sarek Shields, Luciano expects a grappling-heavy test from his opponent, but he’s not fazed.
“I didn’t get to show my grappling last time, but I’ve got seven or eight sub wins,” he said. “And I think my striking is going to be top-notch compared to his.”
Fight Prediction
Luciano didn’t hesitate when asked for a prediction:
“Second-round KO.”
With the “double bubble” (fight purse + win bonus) on the line, Luciano’s motivation is clear — win, get paid, and keep climbing the ladder.
More Than Just a Fighter
Beyond the cage, Luciano brings depth and authenticity that’s rare in the modern MMA landscape. While many fighters chase celebrity, Luciano stays grounded in his love for the sport.
“I didn’t do this to be famous — I did this because I love to fight.”
He’s quick to praise fellow Aussie fighters like Kit Campbell and Jonathon Micallef, celebrating their success as wins for the entire Australian MMA community.
What’s Next for Luciano?
A win over Shields could solidify Luciano’s place in the next PFL playoff bracket and further increase his stock in the PFL Australia roster discussions. And if PFL’s local rollout accelerates, Luciano could become the face of the league Down Under.
As for his long-term future?
“If I keep winning, I’ll have negotiating power,” he said with a smile.
