Mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Chris Indich will represent Australia in the sport’s biggest reality television show -- the Ultimate Fighter Tournament, TUF Nations.
For the rugby player turned fighter, making a career out of fighting comes with responsibilities.
Mr Indich says today’s street crime is an unfortunate symptom of modern life, but hopes he can prevent young indigenous people from getting involved in such violence.
"Obviously going out and on the drink can be tough for anybody, you can have those situations where someone spills a drink and next minute its turns into a full on brawl,” he told NITV.
I definitely say that growing up as Aboriginal person anywhere in Australia is tough, a lot of people say there's not stuff going on but there is and I guess it’s knowing when to be a better person.
The Noongar man, and former West Australian rugby player, was selected from hundreds of applicants to compete in the UFC Tuf Nations tournament and is one of eight to represent Australia against Canada in the new edition of the popular series.
Mr Indich explained the filming experience as surreal and inspirational.
"I've had a taste of what it’s like having the UFC be your boss and look after you and just do all these amazing things. It gives you the lime light, the training, it’s amazing and that’s what I aspire too, I aspire to aim for the top," Mr Indich told NITV.
After 10 weeks on set, Mr Indich is now home in Rockingham, WA, where he will remain under the watchful eye of his coach and mentor, Taff Davies.
"Chris has always had a positive influence on the gym. He's such a humble guy, he rolls really well, he's got that humility and he's got drive. He doesn't get caught up in any of the politics, he's a very easy guy to train with," Mr Davies told NITV.
