Michael "Big Bad" Bazley challenges for his first heavyweight title at Thunderdome 54

"Big Bad" Bazley challenges "The Pilgrim" for heavyweight honours at Thunderdome 54

On May 29, Dragon Fire Boxing hits the Metro City Arena for the second time this year for the 54th edition of the iconic Thunderdome series.

One of the main events features undefeated heavyweight Michael "Big Bad" Bazley (2-0, 2 KOs) taking on Ryan Williams for the Western Australian State Championship.

Bazley comes into his maiden title shot off the back of a quick first-round KO at Thunderdome 53 in March, taking less than two minutes to secure his second stoppage in as many fights.

The Perth puncher, known as "Big Bad" Bazley, opened up about his title fight challenge, "For years, people around me, like teammates, coaches, and friends, told me I had what it takes to be a champion and that I could beat these guys if I really put my mind to it. At the time though, I was just happy staying active and doing it for fun.

“One of my close mates and I used to joke all the time about me becoming champion. It was always something we laughed about until he passed away in 2025.

“That hit me like a lightning bolt and changed everything. From that moment, I knew I couldn’t treat this like a hobby anymore. I had to get the job done for him, for everyone who believed in me, and for myself.

Estate Agent Michael Bazley has been studying his opponent for quite some time, he confessed, "I first saw Ryan on the boxing scene back in 2016 or 2017 when I was watching the Thunderdomes, and I’ve observed him on and off since then. He’s a dangerous and exciting fighter with a never-say-die attitude, which is something I see within myself too.

"Whenever he was on a card, I always made sure to tune in because you knew it was going to be a great fight. He’s built an amazing fanbase over the years, and it’s great to see.

"I was a bit surprised when he was lined up to be my first fight for the Alan Pond Cup. It’s a very different thing watching someone from the outside and then stepping in to face them yourself. Although a serious injury meant that fight was cancelled, he took me by surprise at the Thunderdome 53 face-off.

"You’ve probably noticed I’ve been holding back in my last couple of fights, just trying to get ring time. You’ve earned my respect, so, in this one, I won’t be holding anything back.

"You're not going to want to miss this one!"

Tickets on sale now at megatix.com.au & the event will be broadcast by Livecombatsports.com.au