TRAINING: I spent a lot of time in Australia while I was there, and I met a strange fellow by the name of Russell Bandingo. He taught me some unbelievable training methods, like wrestling fish off an octopus and strapping meat to myself and swimming away from crocodiles to improve my cardio.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training for MMA about six years ago. I've always loved fighting in one form or another, and when I started MMA, I wasn't keen at first, as it’s harder than it looks. So, as a super competitive person, I had to get better at it and there’s always something new to learn. It constantly keeps me thinking, which distracts me from doing weird stuff all the time.

What ranks and titles have you held? At one time I was the Total Combat welterweight British champ and their lightweight European champ, as well as the Strike and Submit welterweight British champ, all at the same time. TUF Smashes lightweight finalist

Do you have any heroes? My heroes are David Bowie, Chuck Norris, and my wife.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? Fighting in the UFC means the world to me. It's a chance to provide for my family and do what I love, and at the same time it's a dream come true. I finally get to test myself out against the best fighters and show the world what I'm all about.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I didn't go to college. I'm not very academic; I'm more of a goofy, idiotic, artistic type. I like to make people laugh, and I'm a clown inside and out.

What was your job before you started fighting? I've had a few different jobs before and whilst doing MMA. I was a night club DJ, a nightclub doorman, then a bus driver for a year when I thought I should be sensible and provide for my family, but that made me miserable, so my wife told me to quit and give my dreams a shot.

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? I believe my biggest accomplishment has been to get into the TUF Smashes TV show and not make a complete Burke out of myself. And make it to the finale.

Favorite grappling technique: My favorite grappling technique is the brabo / D’arce choke, as I have super long stringy arms so I can get them really easy.

Favorite Striking technique: I love all striking techniques, especially spinning back fists/elbows/kicks, and flying knees also

•    Pro since 2008

•    Has won five of his last seven

•    Eight wins by submission

•    Six first round finishes