For those outside of Australian shores, this might be the first time you’re hearing of the name Tom Nolan (5-0). For us Aussies however, it’s a name that has become synonymous with the new breed of Australian MMA. The man they call ‘The Big Train’ looks to punch his ticket to the next station, being the UFC as he prepares for his Dana White’s Contender Series fight tomorrow morning against Austrian, Bogdan Grad (11-1) at approximately 9am, AEST.

Devastating finishes over the likes of Niam Stephen, Adam Cook and Aidan Aguilera in his last three outings caught the attention of the UFC and earned himself a shot at a UFC contract. However Tom is no ordinary Lightweight, at just 23 years of age and a staggering 6’3, he possess an impressive reach and height advantage over most Lightweights not only in the UFC, but around the world. Not to mention his lighting quick hand speed, elusive footwork and ‘dog like mentality’, Nolan has found himself being compared to UFC Lightweight Jalin Turner.

Speaking in an interview with From The Stands, Nolan’s Head Coach Elliot Compton, broke down the reason why he believes Tom will be Australia’s next UFC superstar.

“Tom particularly in this next fight, can do whatever he wants to do. Don’t get me wrong his opponent Bogdan Grad is a stellar opponent, but Tom is just on another level. He’s one of the hardest workers I’ve ever come across in the gym… his ceiling is definitely UFC champion worthy. It’s an exciting time for us in the gym, for Tom personally and his family, but I think its also an exciting time for Australian MMA fans in general that there’s another superstar in the making that’s gonna put Australia on the map once again”

Tom in Las Vegas as he prepares for his DWCS fight

(Photo Credit: Elliot Compton Instagram)

We reached out to Tom for a comment on his preparation’s and how he’s feeling, one day out from his fight with Bogdan Grad.

“I’m feeling unreal bro, easiest weight cut I’ve had in years, best training camp I’ve ever had. I’ve really unlocked my potential for this fight and I plan on letting it all fly tomorrow night”

By far one of the most highly touted Australian MMA prospects in recent years, shoots his shot tomorrow morning. Tune in from 9am AEST, live on ESPN to watch Queensland’s own put the Lightweight division on notice. I suggest you jump on this train now while you still can.