Callander to go for glory in major tournament

Bones MMA athlete Jaiven Callander will take to the mat in the biggest event of his young career this weekend.

The 21-year-old Torquay resident will compete in the Amazing Muay Thai Road to Rajadamnern event at the Melbourne Pavilion tomorrow (Saturday, August 31).

The event is one of the most prestigious in the country and a key gateway to competing at the mecca of Muay Thai at the Rajadamnern in Thailand.

Callander moved to Torquay from Port Fairy in 2022 and has overcome significant adversity to make his fighting dreams come true.

He is on a full scholarship at Bones MMA and trains from 3pm-8pm every day, all the while training up and mentoring younger athletes in his spare time.

Bones MMA founder Matt Williams said Callander had made great strides in his career.

“Jaiven was struggling to get out of the routine he was in in Port Fairy and made a positive change for himself in coming to Torquay to train with us.

“Early on, he was living in a swag in the gym, just to make his dreams come true.

“We’ve recognised some real potential in him and admire the real sacrifice he has made with his training and in his life.

“He’s constantly a source of positive talk among the fight team and we are stoked to be backing him in.”

Mr Williams said the event would be a great chance for Callander to be seen by the best in the business.

“He’ll be under the eyes of the whole Muay Thai community at this event in Melbourne. It’s a huge opportunity for him to be noticed to fight in Thailand, which is his end goal.

“This time, Jaiven will take on someone of his experience. He has fought up in experience in his last two fights, one of which he fought some adversity and won against a really good opponent.

“He has been putting in so much hard work on and off the mat. We are super-proud.”

For more information about the event, and to book tickets, head to rebellionmuaythai.com.au