TRAINING: Hard work every day.

When and why did you start training for fighting? 15 years old – I started in wrestling, and months after I started training BJJ and Muay Thai. I grew around the sport of boxing, I enjoy fighting, and I chose to do what I love as a career.

What ranks and titles have you held? World-ranked by ESPN as number seven in the world.

Do you have any heroes? Dana White (without him there would be no MMA) and Bruce Lee

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? A dream come true – it proves that hard work does pay off.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? No.

What was your job before you started fighting? America's Tire Co

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? Tachi Palace champion, Gladiator Challenge champion

Favorite grappling technique: Flying armbar

Favorite striking technique: Spinning back fist

•    Pro since 2008

•    Five wins by KO, five by submission

•    Four first round finishes

•    Holds wins over Ulysses Gomez and Mamoru Yamaguchi

•    Only losses are to Ian McCall, Robbie Peralta and John Dodson