Tafon Nchukwi: Fighter, Coach, and Inspiration
Tafon Nchukwi is a 29-year-old Cameroonian-American professional fighter with a deep passion for mixed martial arts. His journey began in 2014, when he walked into a local gym on a 30-day free trial. What started as a casual experiment quickly turned into a life-altering passion, leading him to the highest stage of the sport—competing in the UFC just six years later.
Currently, Tafon serves as the head Muay Thai instructor at Lloyd Irvin MMA, where he shares his love for martial arts with his students. Teaching is a daily drive for him, as he not only imparts technical skills but also helps build confidence and resilience in his students. He believes martial arts have the power to transform lives and finds joy in watching his students grow both on the mats and in their personal journeys.
Beyond fighting and teaching, Tafon connects with his audience through his YouTube channel, Tafon Da Don, where he shares everything from fitness routines to life lessons. His mission is to inspire others to push past their limits—both physically and mentally.
Now, Tafon is focused on returning to the highest level of competition in MMA. After stepping away from the UFC, he is dedicating himself to refining his skills, learning from past experiences, and putting in the work to earn his way back to the top-tier promotions. Whether it’s through winning major fights in other promotions or continuing to develop as a fighter and coach, Tafon remains driven to compete at the highest level once again. His journey isn’t over—it’s just getting started.
Tafon’s UFC Journey
Tafon Nchukwi’s journey in the UFC was nothing short of intense and eye-opening. Reaching that level was the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and countless sacrifices. When he first started training in 2014, making it to the UFC in just six years seemed unimaginable, but his relentless pursuit of improvement—both in skills and mindset—pushed him every step of the way.
Competing on the biggest stage in mixed martial arts, Tafon had the honor of facing off against some of the toughest fighters in the world. The UFC is a battleground where fierce competition tests not only physical abilities but also mental toughness. With everyone watching, the pressure to perform at the highest level is immense, and the margin for error is razor-thin. It’s a place where fighters either rise to the occasion or learn some hard lessons.
Through his time in the UFC, Tafon learned the importance of preparation and discipline, not just in the cage but in all aspects of life. The experience shaped him into the fighter and coach he is today, deepening his understanding of the sport and what it takes to succeed at the highest level. Though the UFC chapter came with its highs and challenges, it’s one he carries with immense pride.
Now, Tafon is focused on passing down those invaluable lessons to his students, continuing to grow both as a fighter and as a coach.
About Big Lion Team
Big Lion Team is a movement and a community that represents strength, resilience, and growth. It's more than just a team—it’s a mindset.
The name “Big Lion” comes from Tafon’s fighting spirit and his roots, symbolizing courage, leadership, and the heart of a lion- all which are qualities he aims to embody in his life, his fights, and in the way that he teaches my students.
Big Lion Team is about pushing past your limits, whether in martial arts, personal growth, or life in general. It's for anyone who believes in working hard, staying disciplined, and striving for greatness, no matter the challenges they face.
Whether you're an athlete, a martial artist, or just someone looking for motivation, Big Lion Team is here to support and inspire you. People can support Big Lion Team by being part of the community—whether that means training with us, following the journey on social media, or spreading the word about what we stand for.
On his Instagram & YouTube channels, Tafon “Da Don” shares content that reflects the team’s spirit such as training sessions, motivational insights, behind-the-scenes looks at his life, and lessons that he’s learned from both fighting & teaching.
Supporters can also represent Big Lion Team by sharing the message, wearing the gear (coming soon), or attending events. Ultimately, Big Lion Team is about building a community that thrives on resilience and helps one another grow stronger together.
Become a Member of the Big Lion Team Community
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