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Ryan Thomas

When and why did you start training? My college wrestling program was cut a few years ago at Eastern Illinois University, so I started training MMA with other guys on the team that had crossed over successfully.

What ranks and titles have you held? Courage Fighting Championships welterweight title

Do you have any heroes? Randy Couture, Kyle Maynard

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? Fighting in the UFC means a lot to me. It means my efforts during the past few years are finally paying off. This is my opportunity to let the world know who I am.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I am a senior at Eastern Illinois University and I am studying Elementary Education.

What was your job before you started fighting? I work at a rock quarry in the summertime.

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? 2x NJCAA national qualifier in wrestling. Division I wrestler. As an amateur, I won a 16-man MMA tournament at Daisy Dooks in Iowa.

Favorite grappling technique: Flying Triangle

Favorite Striking technique: Left hook