When and why did you start training for fighting? When I came to the United States in 1991, I started doing judo.  Then I started doing MMA and had my first MMA fight when I was 15 years old.  I’ve been doing it ever since.

What ranks and titles have you held? Eight-time junior national judo champion, 2000 judo junior world team, Junior Olympics judo champion, 2nd Dan Black Belt in judo.

Do you have any heroes? None

What is your favorite technique? Slams

What does it mean for you to fight in the WEC?  It means a lot to me. It’s changed my life.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? No

What was your job before you started fighting? Personal trainer.

Most memorable professional fight? With Joe Lauzon – I beat him and got into the finals of The Ultimate Fighter.

What was your most challenging professional fight? Thiago Tavares – I knew he was a gamer and was tough and that I was gonna have a hard time with him. I thought I was gonna beat him, but I ended up a little short.

Did you compete in any other sport at college or professional level? No

Who were your training partners for this fight? All my teammates from Hayastan Studio, Glendale Main Event Boxing gym, Golden Boy wrestling team, and GFC Fighting Club.

Did you put more emphasis towards a fighting style or adjust your training to prepare for your opponent? It’s different training, a different way of cutting weight, and a different way of sparring.

What, other than WINNING, are you using for motivation for the fight? There’s nothing that motivates me more than getting that phone call that I’ve got a fight coming up. As soon as I sign the contract, I’m already motivated that I’m getting ready for war.

What is your favorite thing about this sport? When me and my opponent are in the cage and they lock the door.

How long do you see yourself staying in this sport? As long as God gives me the power to do it, I will do it. As long as my body can take pain, I’m in there.