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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 9: Michelle Waterson speaks to the media during the UFC 189 & TUF Finale Ultimate Media Day at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino on July 9, 2015 in Las Vegas Nevada. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Michelle Waterson

TRAINING: Wake up, mental practice, take the kids to school, run, come back and have breakfast and vitamins, go to morning practice, snack, mitts or Jiu-jitsu, lunch, pick up the kids and cook dinner, night time practice of strength and conditioning or watching tape. Sometimes after we put the kids to bed I get into the sauna.

When and why did you start training for fighting? At the age of 19 I began my amateur career because martial arts was and is my life and I want to be well-rounded in every aspect, including the combative part. The thrill and challenge it presented got me hooked and I haven’t looked back since.

What ranks and titles have you held? Invicta FC atomweight champion

Do you have any heroes? My husband. He believes in me and supports my dream of becoming the best in the world. He sacrifices a lot for our family to be happy.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? A dream come true. Being in the UFC I will be able to display my heart, soul, and determination for the world to see. It is a platform that will allow me to inspire others to go after their dreams and to be a good role model for my daughter.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I went to college for a year at Denver University, then dropped out to pursue my fighting career

What was your job before you started fighting? I was a waitress at Hooters

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? Win over Jessica Penne to gain the atomweight title for Invicta FC

Ranks in any martial arts styles: Black belt in American freestyle karate, blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Favorite grappling technique: Armbar

Favorite striking technique: Leg kick