TRAINING: I’m working a lot of takedown defense due to his wrestling pedigree...don't want it to be a boring match. I’m getting my jits game better under Charles McCarthy of ATT so I can submit or sweep when on my back.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training in 2005. It’s no secret that Dragonball Z got me into fighting.  I would like to add that watching Quinton “Rampage” Jackson really motivated me as well.

What ranks and titles have you held? None

Do you have any heroes? My father & brother. They were both on deployments at the same time….it was a very scary time for my mother and I…also Rampage….I always wanted to meet him.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? Everything. It’s like a dream come true….now, I must keep the dream alive.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Wallace State Community College: Associate Degree in Criminal Justice and Faulkner University: Bachelors in Criminal Justice

What was your job before you started fighting? I worked at my Air National Guard unit for five years, working the night shift in Alabama.  When I moved to Florida I worked the night shift at Wal-Mart.

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? 10-0….undefeated

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? Beat Bellator winner Bryan Goldsby and UFC veteran Kyle Bradley

Favorite grappling technique: Rear Naked Choke

Favorite Striking technique: Thai Clinch

•    Team Bisping member on TUF 14

•    Pro since 2007

•    In most recent pre-TUF bout, knocked out UFC vet Kyle Bradley in the first round