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UFC 119 weigh ins: Ryan Bader

Ryan Bader

TRAINING: Depending on the day we will do some different things, although I will go through at least three practices a day. One of them is a cardio practice where I will either run sprints on hills or incline on treadmill. I also started cycling, which I enjoy and is a great anaerobic training session. I will then do a standup workout and/or some drilling of techniques. Then in the evening we will have our pro practice, which is usually sparring/jiu-jitsu, etc.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I was a two-time Division I All American and a three-time Pac 10 champion in wrestling at Arizona State University. After graduating I pursued a career in business, I immediately missed competition and the ups and downs of being an athlete. I helped out a friend prepare for a fight and fell in love with the sport. I began training with my wrestling partner and good friend CB Dollaway at Arizona Combat Sports and really enjoyed getting back into the competitive nature. I had my first fight and that just reassured me that this is what I wanted to do.

What titles have you held? 2X Div I All American, 3X Pac 10 Champion, 9-0 pro MMA record.

Do you have any heroes? My parents

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? Fighting in the UFC is my ultimate goal. It is the major league of MMA and I have worked hard throughout my amateur wrestling career and my MMA career to get where I am at today. I grew up watching the UFC and couldn’t be happier to have this opportunity with the UFC.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I graduated from Arizona State University, with a BS in Justice & Social Inquiry and minor in Business.

What was your job before you started fighting? I was in sales and marketing for a Telecommunication company.

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? 2X Div I All American, 3X Pac 10 Champion, 2X high school state champion, 2001 Nevada defensive player of the year/football.

Favorite grappling technique: Arm triangle, blast double leg.

Favorite Striking technique: Elbows