TRAINING: Judo, belt wrestling, Sambo

When and why did you start training for fighting? I have a sportive family - my uncle was my first judo trainer, he brought me into the sports club, and thanks to him I understood that sport is my calling.

What ranks and titles have you held? I have no ranks and titles in professional sports, but I have titles as an amateur:  The Champion of Russia in hand-to-hand fighting, the Champion of Russia in Belt wrestling, the World Champion in Belt wrestling.

Do you have any heroes? Roy Jones, Fedor Emelianenko, Mike Zambidis

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? When I came into MMA, it was my goal to fight in the UFC. I went a long way, and for me it’s highest point of my career.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I have a University education; my specialty is physical culture. 

What was your job before you started fighting? I didn’t work. When I started fighting, I was studying in University (soon I will have a second specialty - Lawyer). But now I work in the police department.

Favorite grappling technique: Hip throw

Favorite striking technique: Jab

• Pro since 2009

• Six wins by submission (4 armbar, bulldog choke, heel hook), three by KO

• Nine first round finishes

• Owns 2010 win over UFC vet Sheila Gaff