TRAINING: I usually train jits / MMA / wrestling from 1030-1230, then stand up with either Gil Martinez or Kit Cope in the afternoon from 4-5 and jits again from 6-7. Some days I'll substitute the afternoon jits class for a hard conditioning routine.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I began MMA training at 13 in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai. My father took me to Brazil after my freshman year in high school to begin training with the world renowned Chute Boxe Academy. I trained for 6 months in Brazil with many people, including Anderson Silva, Wanderlei Silva, Shogun Rua and Murilo Rua.

What ranks and titles have you held? I'm a 2x Utah state champ and 3x regional champ in wrestling

Do you have any heroes? My father.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means that I have made it to the front door. Now I gotta take names and leave out the back. This is a dream come true and it means I will be fighting the BEST fighters in the world. I couldn't be happier.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I went to Snow College in Efraim, Utah for 3 semesters. I had a football scholarship but left it and left school to pursue my dream.

What was your job before you started fighting? I was always in to school and playing sports so it was hard to keep a job. After I left college fighting was my job. I made enough money from my first 2 fights to be able to move to LA and train. I lived in the gym so I didn't have to pay for rent.

Favorite grappling technique: GNP

Favorite Striking technique: punching the face

•    Protégé of Wanderlei Silva

•    Lost second pro bout via split decision

•    Five wins by KO