TRAINING: A typical day of training for me usually consists of three practices: one in the morning, one mid-afternoon and one in the evening. My Monday, Wednesday, Friday, schedule is jiu-jitsu in the morning, followed by strength and conditioning at noon, and wrestling for MMA in the evening. My Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday schedule is sparring in the morning, followed by focus mitts and striking drills mid afternoon, and rolling in the evening. I also try to squeeze as many naps in as possible.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I met Nathan Marquardt several years back, and have been following him around ever since. I love the training and the brotherhood between warriors. I think I should have been born a thousand years ago; fighting just feels very natural to me.

What ranks and titles have you held? Fight to Win 205 champ, Brown belt in BJJ under Nathan Marquardt/Easton BJJ

Do you have any heroes? People who do the right thing when no one is watching.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? I have been training and preparing for this opportunity for ten years. I got frustrated several times along the way, when it seemed like it was never going to be my turn.  But it looks like God's plan was better than mine. I'm so happy to be here!

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Art Institute of Colorado, Bachelors program in Media Arts

What was your job before you started fighting? Security guard down town at Denver Health Hospital. That was a crazy job!

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? Battle quest 205 champ, several BJJ medals

Favorite grappling technique: Any Choke. Choking someone is the best way to end a fight.

Favorite striking technique: Left Hook

•    Pro since 2008

•    Amateur record was 4-1

•    Loss to St. Preux snapped four fight winning streak

•    Four first round finishes

•    Four wins by KO, three by submission