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SAITAMA, JAPAN - FEBRUARY 26: (L-R) Bart Palaszewski punches Hatsu Hioki during the UFC 144 event at Saitama Super Arena on February 26, 2012 in Saitama, Japan. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Hatsu Hioki; Bart Palaszewski

Bart Palaszewski

TRAINING: Pretty much the same as always. Grappling, wrestling, S&C and a ton of striking. I’m also working on something strategically specific for my opponent.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I just love the pressure and I love the feeling of winning over another guy. When I was 18 I won an amateur tournament and have never looked back.

What ranks and titles have you held: I was multiple defending champ for the XFO, an organization that has launched many careers including UFC, PRIDE, WEC and IFL fighters. Black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Do you have any heroes? Jeff Curran has been a big brother to me, a mentor and he has shown me everything I know about fighting. He would have to be my hero.

What is your favorite technique? KO standing, however it happens. As for the ground, I love the triangle.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It's a dream come true. I’ve been wanting this opportunity and have been working for it for almost 10 years. I'm where I belong in my eyes, the biggest MMA stage in the world.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I graduated High School, but never went on to college. I was training and fighting full-time when I was still in High School to be honest.

What was your job before you started fighting? I was in High School and there was a work program that I was part of for a Brake Company in our area. Never planned on doing that full-time though.