TRAINING: I train two times per day. I focus on striking Mon/Wed/Fri morning, Tues/Thurs wrestling, and jiu-jitsu every night.

When and why did you start training for fighting? May 2007. I wanted to know what the hype for this thing called jiu-jitsu was all about.

What ranks and titles have you held? No gi World champ at blue, purple, and brown belt. Gi silver medalist at the Mundials as blue, purple, brown. Achieved black belt in five years and put my focus into MMA.

Do you have any heroes? "I admire, work, dedication, and competence" - Ayrton Senna. I respect any man who fits that description.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? One step closer to making my dreams come true

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I put college on hold. I got a call from the UFC.

What was your job before you started fighting? Scooping ice cream at Baskin Robbins

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? I have over 50 jiu-jitsu tournaments under my belt, and I’ve placed first, second, or third in every one of them.

Ranks in any martial arts styles: Jiu-jitsu black belt and dark blue and black in Muay Thai.

Favorite grappling technique: Not necessarily a technique, but I love feeling someone break under my pressure.

Favorite striking technique: Counters

• Pro since 2009

• Five wins by submission (1 arm triangle, 3 rear naked, 1 armbar), two by KO

• Five first round finishes

 

• Has finished seven of his last eight wins