Justin Tafa, a New Zealand-born fighter of Samoan descent who now calls Australia home, embodies the Maori spirit of being strong, firm and steadfast. Despite their minority representation, Samoan fighters have shined brightly inside the Ultimate Fighting Championship. The way Tafa sees it, the country itself has yet to fully catch the mixed martial arts bug.
Tafa entered the UFC amidst considerable fanfare, buoyed by his early-career reputation for knockout power. Despite only three professional bouts under his belt, he was given a shot to compete under the UFC banner. While his debut was marred by defeat, he has come a long way since.