Training: I train two to three times daily, depending on the day, and train wrestling, jiu-jitsu, and stand up equally. My main training partners are Nick Fekete, Eric Smith, Forrest Griffin, Carmelo Marrero, Mike Whitehead, Frank Mir, Brice Ritani-Coe.

When and why did you start training for fighting? My mom always says I've been fighting since day one, but I didn't start training till I was 19 after stumbling across a few friends involved with MMA...I compete in MMA because it is the purest, most difficult form of competition.

What ranks and titles have you held? Self proclaimed Athens, GA all you can eat champion

Do you have any heroes?  My Mother, Gardner Dominick, Dr. Sam Holloway, Corey Nesslehutt, and Governator Arnold

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? Fighting in the UFC is an opportunity to show I belong amongst the elite heavyweight Mixed Martial Artists of the world.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I went to University of Georgia. I am still enrolled in online classes that I will finish after I finish this fight. After I finish these classes I don’t plan on returning till I am in my late 30’s and finished with a very illustrious fighting career. 

What was your job before you started fighting?  I have had tons of odd jobs…..janitor, worked at Dairy Queen, movie theater usher, personal trainer, waiter, Burger King, bouncer and mowed a few church lawns in my day.

Favorite grappling technique: takedowns

Favorite Striking technique: the ones that land flush