Taihiwi Goldsmith

Since joining the team in 2022, Taihiwi Goldsmith has made a powerful impact as both a coach and competitor. Starting as an exceptional kickboxer, he quickly transitioned into MMA, where his aggressive, crowd-pleasing style has made him a standout on New Zealand’s top promotion, our very own Shuriken Fight Series, featured on UFC Fight Pass. Still early in his career, Taihiwi already holds his own against some of Oceania’s toughest lightweight professionals.

You’ll find him immersed in nearly every MMA related class, constantly sharpening his craft and helping others do the same. While he may have a RBF, he’s one of the most approachable coaches on the mats, so feel free to come up and say hi! As a coach, Taihiwi does it all, from working with neurodiverse kids to cornering fighters, helping hobbyists find their flow, supporting weight-loss journeys and teaching self-defence. He meets people where they’re at, hypes them up and keeps things real, making sure everyone who steps on the mats feels welcome, capable and part of the team.