Justin Tafa


Justin Tafa is a New Zealand mixed martial arts fighter of Samoan heritage, currently competing in the Heavyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

Early life

Tafa was born in Auckland, New Zealand to a family of Samoan descent. He is the brother of kickboxer, Junior Tafa. He grew up in the west Auckland suburb of Avondale and his first sporting interest was rugby league where he played for the Marist Saints in the junior Auckland Rugby League. Tafa carries the Samoan flag in the cage.

Rugby league career

Tafa's athletic career began in rugby league, and he was signed to the Melbourne Storm.

Mixed martial arts career

Early career

At the age of 23, Tafa began training MMA and amassed a record of 3–0, prior to being signed by the UFC.

Ultimate Fighting Championship

Tafa made his promotional debut on 6 October 2019 at UFC 243 against Yorgan de Castro. He lost the fight via knockout in the first round.
For his second fight with the promotion, Tafa faced Juan Adams on 8 February 2020 at UFC 247. He won the fight via TKO in the first round.
Tafa is scheduled to face Raphael Pessoa on July 25, 2020 at UFC on ESPN 14.

Mixed martial arts record