When and why did you start training for fighting?  I started training when I was 16 to box in the golden gloves. I turned pro in boxing when I was 23. Boxing started to die down and my manager, Chad Bergmeier, talked me into trying MMA. I loved it and here I am.
What ranks and titles have you held?  Extreme Challenge welterweight champion

Do you have any heroes?  My mother - without her I wouldn’t be where I’m at today.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? Fighting in the UFC is a dream come true. I never thought in a million years that when I started fighting I would end up fighting in the UFC. It is something most people only dream about, and it’s now my reality.

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

What was your job before you started fighting?  I have worked construction for a long time; I now work in a steel plant loading semi trucks

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? golden gloves champ

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? 2 time toughman champion

Favorite grappling technique: key lock

Favorite Striking technique: left hook