TRAINING: Wake up at 8:00, head to the YMCA and get a 1mile run in, then a nice lift, then swim for 45min. I would head home around 11:00 to relax before the next workout. I hit up my rainier crossfit gym at 4:00, then after that I hit up AMCP to train MMA, head home to get some grub and sleep.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training to fight in October of 2005. I was watching the first season of ‘The Ultimate Fighter’ and I liked how they were in shape. I always liked to be healthy, so the training regime intrigued me. Reese Andy was the one who influenced me to sign up with AMC and then it's just taken off from there.

What ranks and titles have you held? Last time I checked I was 31 in the world, but my goal is #1. In my amateur circuit I held 4 different titles. Genesis MMA & Genesis Muay Thai, Rumble on the Ridge, Ax Fighting Championship

Do you have any heroes? Batman, because I grew up watching him and always wanted to be like him.

What is your favorite technique? My footwork.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means everything. I can’t wait to fight for the UFC and I can’t wait to show the UFC that I belong here.

 Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Yes, I went to Pierce Community College and didn't finish my associates degree because I was at a turning point. It was either to stay in school and get my AA or continue training harder and try to make a career with fighting. I made the decision to pursue my dream as a fighter and here I am today.

What was your job before you started fighting? Well, I still am working a full-time job besides fighting. I work in a warehouse in downtown Tacoma that's a recycling tube plant.

•    2-1 in the WEC with wins over Damacio Page and Nick Pace and a close decision loss to Brad Pickett

•    Multi-sport athlete in high school

•    Five wins by submission, two by knockout