Proving Grounds Fight League Kicks off 2025 in style, with a Card full of Amateurs stating their case in “Pro Like” Fashion.

AMATEUR FIGHTS, PROFESSIONAL PROMOTION- Proving Grounds Fight League Director Robyn O’neill continues to put Australian Mixed Martial Arts on notice, by providing yet another stacked & action packed Fight Card last Saturday Night at a SOLD OUT Southport Sharks Arena.

Of the 14 Fights, almost Half ended in either Submission, TKO, or Knockout, giving fight fans in attendance, and those watching LIVE online, the excitement they were promised when this Card was first announced.

The Broadcast Team, aka ‘The Broadcast Captains’ consisting of, Rhys “The Slim Reaper” Giles, Chong Ali, and MCT found their feet early. Maintaining a smooth and seamless flow throughout the evening, while bringing the energy on the mic, both inside and cageside.

The Co-Main event between Kai “Killa” Kirby and Josh “The Dentist” O’Donoghue showcased the current peak of Australia’s Amateur Middleweight Division.

O’Donoghue (3-2) proving to be Kirby’s (3-0) toughest test thus far, with the Irishman showing a true fighters spirit across all three rounds, landing big punches in the clinch and displaying improvements in his Boxing-heavy fighting style.

However, a vicious left body-rip to the liver from Kirby, followed by a right hook to the head, sent O’Donoghue to the canvas, before Referee Thomas Churchill stopped the contest (2:12 secs, Round 3), after some violent Ground and Pound from “The Killa.”

At just 22 Years of age, Kai Kirby continues to improve in all aspects of MMA, since finding a new home at CMBT Training Centre under the tutelage of Miles Muecke, Brentin Mumford, Jesse Yada, and Coach Sammy.

A wealth of experience in the corner of Kirby, proving to be the key to Kai’s patience, discipline, and improved Fight IQ.

Alongside Coaching Wrestling & MMA at FitClub QLD, Ashmore- many have said that Kirby is “the future” of Australian Mixed Martial Arts, and if last Saturday is any indication of what is to come, be sure to keep an eye on this young man, as he progresses throughout his career.

Speaking of rising stars, the Main Event of PGFL 6 featured a match up between seasoned MMA Fighter Josh O’Brien (5-5) and 18 year old teenager Aidyn Gould (3-0).

While Fight Fans expected The KO Artist (O’Brien) to continue his winning streak, Gould had other plans- managing to secure a Rear Naked Choke and claim victory by Submission (1:14 secs, Round 1), extending his victorious run to 3 wins on the trot.

The Team Compton Prospect, showing exactly why he is ‘one to watch’ praising his fellow teammates Dom Mar Fan, Jayden Binnie, and Coaches Steve & Elliot Compton for their input during the short 2 week preparation prior to this bout.

Since its 4 year inception on May 22nd 2021, Proving Grounds Fight League has provided Amateur Fighters an exclusive stage to perform, while at the same time, preparing athletes to enter the Pro Ranks as they gain valuable experience against even and fair competition.

However, Fight Fans often leave the Southport Sharks Arena in awe of the talent, ability, and skill these young athletes possess, with many of the bouts being considered amongst the most exciting fights we’ve seen at this level.

In my 9 years of Announcing & Commentary, there’s nothing quite like ‘grass roots’ sports. Whether its Rugby, Boxing, or in this case, Mixed Martial Arts- the pure love of sport seen in the early stages of an athletes career is admirable. As fan myself, I can certainly appreciate the Passion and Desire the prospects of tomorrow dedicate their loves to, for our entertainment.

And with that… We say Goodnight from the Gold Coast.

Next Stop? LOGAN CITY!

Eternal 95.

See you there.

-MCT.