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Tim Sylvia

TRAINING: I usually get up at 8am, get into the gym, run two or three miles and work on technique with Pat. I’ll then do my plyometric or agility training, make sure I eat a couple of times, and then go back in the evening and work out.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started a few years ago. I wrestled a little bit in high school, and always did martial arts like karate. I had the opportunity to start grappling for fun and to stay in shape. I enjoyed it a lot. I did a couple grappling tournaments and took first place in them. I got invited to an amateur MMA fight (open hand rules). I went down there and knocked the guy out in 12 seconds. I loved it, and have been doing it ever since.

What ranks and titles have you held? Two-time UFC heavyweight champion. Superbrawl 16-man tournament champion. Gladiator Challenge super-fight champion.

Do you have any heroes? Definitely Pat Miletich. If it wasn’t for Pat, I don’t know if I could’ve made it in this sport. I picked up everything I had and moved out there. He and all the other guys made it so comfortable to stay, even without family around. He was there calling me, coming to my house, taking me out to eat, just being there like a fighter.

What is your favorite technique? Standup striking.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It’s a goal I set when I started doing this a few years ago. It’s a dream come true. It’s the best you can get in this sport, the highest level.

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

What was your job before you started fighting? After high school, Tim played three years of semi-pro football in the EFL (Eastern Football League).