Aussie UFC star Jessica-Rose Clark reveals lowest point in alcoholism fight and how MMA saved her

Australian UFC star Jessica-Rose Clark is gearing up for her ninth walk into the Octagon when she takes on Tainara Lisboa on Sunday – but whatever the result, Clark can say she’s winning at life.

The Brisbane bantamweight, 35, has overcome domestic violence and alcohol addiction as she takes on some of the toughest women in the world.

Clark, who has had impressive wins over the likes of Paige VanZant and Bec Rawlins, revealed that she knew she had to stop drinking altogether when her hangover prevented her from improving her life.

“I’ve known for a long time that I had to stop drinking,” she told Daily Mail Australia.

“The final straw was when I decided to go to church with my strength trainer and his wife and kids — but I was too hungover to go.

Clark says martial arts training is a great way to overcome addiction problems

“I was sick when I was puking in the shower, I was hungover.

“I remember sitting in the shower crying and thinking I made this decision to do something positive for my life and be around good people, but instead I can’t go because I decided to do something toxic to do that didn’t help me.

“I chose a negative over a positive. That was the day I realized how often I was busy and said: I’m done, that’s it.’

The Aussie says martial arts training is a great way to overcome addiction issues and recommends it to anyone struggling.

“Martial arts give you something to consistently put your focus and energy into,” she said.

“You get consistent, small performance. You can set tangible and achievable goals.

“I was heavily on alcohol because I was emotionally unhappy. If I’m unhappy now, I’ll go to the gym or go for a run.’

Fans of the UFC often compare Clark to the famous DC comic book character Harley Quinn, and sometimes mistake her for Aussie boxing champion Ebanie Bridges.

Clark isn’t surprised by the comparison – and she’s a big fan of the Blonde Bomber.

Clark is often compared to Aussie World Boxing Champion Ebanie Bridges – and she doesn’t mind at all

Clark prepares for her ninth walk to the Ocatagon when she takes on Tainara Lisboa

“I’ve never met Ebanie — we’re friends on social media,” says Clark.

“I’m a big fan of hers though. I would love the chance to train with her. I think we would have a lot of fun together.’

Like Bridges, Clark is a tattoo aficionado and says it’s hard to choose her favorite piece of ink.

“I have many,” she explained.

“I have three for mom. We have the same Elvis “Love Me Tender” tattoo that we got together. I got my dogs tattooed on my leg.

“I have a “Well, f**k” candy heart tattoo. Because if things go wrong and you have no control over it, that’s all you can say.’

The fighter will commemorate her return to the Octagon with a strike song by Australian hip-hop trio Bliss n Eso and is determined to raise her hand afterwards.

“I’m prepared for whatever version of my opponent comes out,” she says.

“All I’m saying is I’m going out with a win by the end of the night.”