Jack Jenkins is a mixed martial artist hailing from Australia. After making his MMA debut in 2016, Jack has fought in numerous MMA promotions before punching his ticket to the UFC on Dana White’s Contender Series: Season 6. Now, just like so many Australian fighters on the roster, Jack will be looking to make his mark in the UFC.
For his first UFC fight, Jenkins will take on Don Shainis in the early prelims of UFC 284. With the event being held in Perth, Australia, Jenkins will be fighting alongside some notable Aussie fighters like Alexander Volkanovski, Jack Della Maddalena, and Tyson Pedro. As such, the 29-year-old will feel much more confident making his debut alongside his fellow countrymen on home turf.
Previously, Jenkins also signed with Paradigm Sports Management, joining the likes of Israel Adesanya, Conor McGregor, and Jack Della Maddalena. According to Jenkins, Alexander Volkanovski also put in a word for him numerous times with UFC matchmaker Sean Shelby, who is admittedly a long-time admirer. Thus, it was only a matter of time before Jack’s hard work would be noticed.
For the most part, Jenkins’ journey to the UFC has been a long one. From fighting in Hex Fight Series and Eternal MMA, Jack ended up on Dana White’s Contender Series against Emiliano Linares. On the night, Jack put in a dominant display, ending the fight with a finish in the third round. Despite fears of not doing enough, Jack was able to secure the contract and will make his first appearance at UFC 284.
What is Jack Jenkins’ fighting style?
Born and brought up in Bacchus Marsh, west of Melbourne, Jack was drawn to MMA when he was only 14 years old. Following his kickboxer brother to the gym, Jack was pretty sure about wanting to become a fighter very early on. Soon after, Jenkins began watching the UFC and started to learn jiu-jitsu as well.
Similar to Alex Volkanovski, Jenkins was also a rugby player in high school. Coincidentally, Jenkins would also go on to have a few sparring sessions with the featherweight champ over the years. Yet another coincidence, Jenkins also happened to be the teammate of Jack Della Maddalena‘s older brother, Josh, in the rugby state team. Thus, in a way, “Phar Jack” has always been connected to UFC fighters in one way or another.
Over the years, Jack has amassed a 10-2 professional MMA record. Prior to his appearance on the Contender Series, Jenkins was also the featherweight champion at Eternal MMA. As such, he is a very experienced fighter and has often thanked the current #1 P4P Volkanovski for inspiring him. According to Jack, his time sparring with Volk helped him improve his strength, cardio, and conditioning to the next level.
As for his work inside the Octagon, Jenkins fights with a switch stance. Moreover, the Aussie fighter has displayed great ability in both striking and grappling. Throughout his career, Jenkins has won 5 of his fights through TKO and 3 fights via submissions. Standing at 1.7 meters, he is a tough and durable opponent for any featherweight on the roster. Currently riding a 7-fight win streak, expect Jenkins to put on a proper show at UFC 284.