Fighter’s Profile: Ben “The Blade” Johnston

Ben “The Blade” Johnston – Fighter, Coach, Mentor

Ben “The Blade” Johnston began training at Iron Fist Gym in 2008. Over time, he developed into a highly respected and versatile fighter, and has since become a dedicated coach and mentor for the next generation.

Under the guidance of long-time coach and mentor Daniel “Iron Fist” Bell, —an influential figure in the Australian Muay Thai community—Ben transitioned from student to competitor. Known for his aggressive style and relentless forward pressure, he quickly made his mark by winning 12 consecutive bouts after his debut, securing Queensland, Australian, and South Pacific titles across multiple weight divisions.

Throughout his combat sports career, Ben became known for his ability to finish fights. Across nearly 40 bouts in Muay Thai, MMA, and amateur boxing, he maintained an impressive 90% finish rate, a testament to his power, pressure, and instinct in the ring.

Ben also competed in amateur boxing, further sharpening his striking and composure under pressure. During his MMA career, he trained under Eugene Bareman at the world-renowned City Kickboxing in Auckland, where he developed alongside some of the sport’s top athletes. He went on to achieve a professional MMA record of 5 wins and 1 loss, including capturing the Eternal Middleweight Championship.

Committed to growth and learning, Ben travelled internationally to train in elite environments, including Thailand, Amsterdam, Rio de Janeiro, and Las Vegas—spending time at Wanderlei Silva’s gym. During this journey, he also began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has since earned his brown belt.

In 2014, after the closure of Iron Fist Gym, Ben co-founded The Fight Centre – Brisbane (TFC) with his close friend James Jarvie. Together, they created a space where people of all backgrounds could develop discipline, confidence, and skill through martial arts. Ben headlined the gym’s first official fight, securing another Australian title, and continued competing while guiding the TFC team.

In Muay Thai, Ben climbed the WBC world rankings, winning multiple light heavyweight titles and ultimately claiming the WBC Light Heavyweight World Title in 2018 after defeating England’s Dan Edwards in Brisbane. Ben Johnston vs Dan Edwards. The victory followed a training camp in Thailand with former world champion Lamsongkram Chuwattana.

Ben’s expertise has also been sought at the highest levels of the sport. He was invited to assist Israel Adesanya in preparation for his rematch victory over Alex Pereira, contributing striking insight and sparring support during one of MMA’s most high-profile events.

In recent years, Ben sustained a serious shoulder injury while wrestling at the New South Wales State Championships, leading to his retirement from active competition. He now dedicates himself fully to coaching and mentoring others. At TFC, Ben leads training across Muay Thai, MMA, boxing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, sharing the knowledge, values, and mindset that defined his career.

Ben Johnston WBC world champion 2018