TRAINING: A typical day of training starts off with morning team training (which could be anything from MMA rounds, sparring, wrestling, BJJ). After team training I would be doing strength and conditioning or jiu-jitsu with a gi, depending on the day. Later that evening I would have mitts or a run. Most days I put in three intense training sessions

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training in January of 2007. I was a huge fan of the UFC/TUF, and I had an overwhelming desire to give MMA a try.

What ranks and titles have you held? I hold a purple belt in BJJ. I have held the heavyweight title for Cage Combat and the WFO light heavyweight title.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? Fighting in the UFC means a lot. I set out five years ago to pursue a career in MMA, and now I’m fighting for the best company and fighting the best fighters in the world.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I went to Howard Payne University where I received a degree in Business Administration and also played four years of NCAA football

What was your job before you started fighting? Full time student/ athlete

Favorite grappling technique: rear naked choke

Favorite Striking technique: head kick

•    Pro since 2007

•    On five fight winning streak

•    Four wins by KO, five wins by submission