TRAINING: I get up and eat my Metabolic Meal to fuel the machine! Wrestling in the AM to ensure my strength stays sharp. Two hours later I do my circuit training and conditioning. Eat again, nap and bring the Beast out to play again at 7:45 p.m. with focus mitts and a jog. Protein shake and sleep by 10 p.m. That's my MWF. On the the odd days I spar in the AM and grapple in the PM. I usually get my sprints right in after I spar, and stretch and roll. Friday I do my versa climber sprints, yoga to loosen up for Saturday. We spar Saturday and do a field day: sled sprints, tire flips, battle ropes, and plyos. Sunday is church, rest, massage, recovery, and family time.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training after I graduated college. I started watching some of the wrestlers that were doing well in the sport and I thought my wrestling translated well, so I wanted to get in there and give it a try.

What ranks and titles have you held? Brown Belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu

Do you have any heroes? Jesus, my Mom, and Ali......in that order

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? I don't want to get caught up in the hype! I've had bouts with more at stake. So I want to relax and get the first one under my belt, put on a great show, declare war on all welterweights.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? University of Missouri grad. Studied Business, and currently halfway done in a Masters in Public Administration with an a focus on Non Profit

What was your job before you started fighting? College wrestling coach

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? 7-0 Amateur MMA, 48-0 high school state champ in wrestling, two-time high school All-American, Big-12 champ, two-time D-I college All-American, over 100 college victories

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? Victory over a very game Tarec Saffiedine

Favorite grappling technique: D’arce Choke

Favorite striking technique: Straight Right

· Pro since 2009

 

· Four wins by submission (arm triangle, armbar, D’Arce choke, RNC), seven by KO

 

· Making third title defense

 

· Fought nine of his 21 pro fights in Strikeforce

 

· Nine first round finishes

 

· Appeared in the film Straight Outta Compton