When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training in 2008. I was fat and bored, and looking for a way to lose weight and have fun outside of work. I was working a desk job and had dropped out of school and I used to watch UFC Unleashed all the time, and thought that was cool. So I signed up for kickboxing classes. On the second day, I tried jiu-jitsu, competed in my first tournament two weeks later, and was hooked. After six months, I quit my job to train full-time.
What ranks and titles have you held? I'm a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and 7x IBJJF World Champion. TUF 26 finalist.
Do you have any heroes? Mike Tyson, Oprah.
What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means the accumulation of 10 years of hard work and dedication, sacrifice and the pursuit of a goal. It's amazing to compete on MMA's biggest stage.
What was your job before you started fighting? I did all kinds of stuff. I was trying to find my passion. At the time I was an admin assistant, and before that I've been a bartender, car dealer, security, overnight stocker at Macy's. (Laughs) The list goes on.
Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? LOC amateur champion at 135
Favorite grappling technique: Kimura, top pressure
Favorite Striking technique: Anything that's violent and damaging
