Training: A typical day of training is wake up, eat, go to Throwdown MMA center for either grappling or Muay Thai practice, go home, eat, rest, and then come back at night for MMA training and conditioning.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training martial arts when I was 16 doing Jeet Kune Do. I liked the martial arts because of the discipline and respect involved. I also love the completion aspect and pushing myself to see how far I can go.

What ranks and titles have you held? I have held the MCC 155lb title and the Glory 155lb title.

Do you have any heroes? Muhammad Ali and Donald Trump.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means a lot to me because I have had this as a goal since my first pro fight. It’s a dream come true, but now my next goal is to be ranked in the top 10, so as far as I am concerned, this is just the start.

What was your job before you started fighting? Before fighting I was an Assistant manager in a jewelry store.

Favorite grappling technique: Guillotine

Favorite Striking technique: head kick

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