From Scaffolder to UFC Fighter: Jai Herbert’s Remarkable Journey

Discover the remarkable journey of Jai Herbert, a UFC fighter who went from being a scaffolder to competing in the lightweight division. Read his inspiring story of determination and success.

Jai Herbert, a teammate of the reigning UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards, has a truly extraordinary story of rising from humble beginnings. Starting his MMA journey at the age of 24, Herbert defied the odds and pursued his passion for fighting while juggling a demanding day job as a scaffolder. Now competing in the UFC’s lightweight division, Herbert’s journey is an inspiration to all aspiring fighters.

The Decision to Go Full-Time

In a recent interview with talkSPORT, Herbert opened up about the pivotal moment when he decided to make the switch to being a full-time MMA fighter. At the age of 35, he made the bold decision to quit his job and fully commit to his dream of becoming an MMA champion.

Reflecting on this decision, Herbert expressed both the difficulty and the pride he felt. He admitted, ‘When I look back now, I think to myself, ‘I don’t know how I did it some of the time.” But he also acknowledged the impressive nature of his journey, stating, ‘Looking back at it, it was pretty f**king impressive. I’m not blowing my own trumpet, but it was hard work.’

Capturing the Cage Warriors Lightweight Title

Herbert’s dedication and hard work paid off when he achieved a significant milestone in June 2019. He captured the Cage Warriors lightweight title, marking a turning point in his career. This achievement solidified his belief in his abilities and propelled him further towards his ultimate goal.

Inspiring Others to Follow Their Dreams

Herbert hopes that his story can serve as inspiration for others who have dreams they want to pursue. He said, ‘I’m a bit stubborn like that. I just thought, ‘I know I can get there, and I will.’ I hope people can look at that and see that you can still follow your dreams and you can do it how I did it.’

Conclusion

Jai Herbert’s journey from being a scaffolder to competing in the UFC’s lightweight division is a testament to his unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of his passion. His story serves as a reminder that with hard work and a refusal to give up, anyone can achieve their dreams.