TRAINING: I train 2-3 times a day, six days a week. In the mornings I train Muay Thai with my coach Brian Wright of Real Elite in Asbury Park, NJ or get my  strength and conditioning in with Sharon Wentworth. At night and in the afternoon I train my wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu technique and spar at Pellegrino MMA.


When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training with Kurt when I was a teenager. Started fighting at 18 because I wasn't interested in wrestling in college but still loved to compete.

What ranks and titles have you held? I am a brown belt in BJJ under Kurt, I’ve won numerous grappling titles (Grapplers Quest, NAGA) as well as two MMA titles

Do you have any heroes? My father, Frank Soto

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means the world to me. Getting into the UFC was always my goal, and I feel very fortunate to have done it at such a young age.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I graduated from Monmouth University with a degree in Criminal Justice, I also minored in Psychology. My application has been accepted by the New Jersey State Police and I will continue to pursue that after I'm done fighting.

What was your job before you started fighting? I bartended and taught jiu-jitsu

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? Undefeated in amateur MMA, district champion and region runner up in wrestling in high school, 2 time state place winner in wrestling in NJ.

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? Undefeated in professional MMA with a record of 7-0

Ranks in any martial arts styles: Brown belt in BJJ

Favorite grappling technique: Chokes

Favorite Striking technique: Elbows