Thoughts on opponent, Vladimir Matyushenko? He’s a good guy with decent stand up and real good control on the ground and he looks strong as hell. I just have to keep it in his mind and show him throughout the fight that I’m the younger, stronger and faster fighter out there

Training: Wake up, eat breakfast, go to jiu-jitsu, lunch, kickboxing, strength and conditioning, eat and sleep.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training in kickboxing when I was 16 and haven’t stopped yet.

What ranks and titles have you held? Last WEC light heavyweight champion in history (organization discontinued the 205-pound weight class in 2008).

Do you have any heroes? Jesus

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? I'm extremely thankful, it's a dream come true for me. It is definitely something I can't take for granted. Not everyone gets a chance to make a dream come true. This is just the beginning; without hard work, dedication, focus, perseverance and heart it can quickly turn into a nightmare.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? None

What was your job before you started fighting? Student and trainer

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? As an amateur I won a couple grappling tournaments such as Grappling Quest and Desert Quest. I also won a few amateur kickboxing fights.

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? As a pro I won the WEC light heavyweight championship at the age of 21.

Ranks in any martial arts styles: At this moment I’m a black belt in kickboxing under Nick Blomgren and I’m a brown belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu under Sergio Pehna.

Favorite grappling technique: Nothing in particular, but I do prefer to break something rather than putting someone to sleep.

Favorite Striking technique: Too many ways to knock someone out to have a favorite, but it's always cool to jump, spin, fly, scissor, kick or punch someone.