Tomlinson’s drive for third belt stronger than ever

ONE of the region’s most prolific fighters is on the brink of attaining a third belt in separate weight classes when he leads a contingent of Bones MMA representatives to Melbourne Pavilion on February 11.

Armstrong Creek resident and combat athlete, Isaac “Kid Ink” Tomlinson, alongside fellow Bones MMA fighters Daniel “Nacho Libre” Stroud, Donna Lindsay, and Zane “Milkman” Braniff will square off with opponents at the premier Muay Thai card for Hardcore Promotions.

Fresh off a superb outing against Sulaiman Hashemi in July to obtain the Super-Lightweight belt, Tomlinson is keen to expand his presence on the Australian fight scene, taking on a tough up-and-comer in Jack Matthews in his 20th professional bout for the WBC State Lightweight Title at 61.5kg.

Tomlinson, who started a young family just over a year ago, said his life had been surreal since having his daughter Mylah added an extra element of determination in that time.

“It has certainly given me more drive to do better,” Tomlinson said.

“Something to show her when she’s a little bit older, something to be proud of when she thinks of her dad, rather than an ordinary fighter.”

Tomlinson’s aggressive fight style and added flair for entertaining is something he will continue into the Matthews bout, but Kid Ink expects a similar approach from his opponent in a matchup filled with respect.

“It will be a really good fight,” Tomlinson added.

“I’ve been watching Jack come up through the amateur ranks into what he is now.

“I couldn’t think of anyone better to fight for this third belt, and if anyone else was to have that belt, I’m glad it’s him.”

Stroud stands to complete his 10th professional fight against Geelong product Madison Ives, while Braniff will size up debutant Caleb Close.

Torquay businesswoman Donna Lindsay only recently returned to action after six years away from the ring and has since conquered her anxiety of returning to action despite the loss.

“It’s a bit more redemption this time around rather than fear,” Lindsay said.

“There’s a lot more excitement as well compared to my last fight, I’ve loved getting back to the routine of preparing for a fight.

“I like the structure of routine. I love dieting, I love knowing I have to make weight. It suits my personality having a goal I have to work towards.”