TUF Bio

Training: A lot of sleeping. I've learned from years of studying bodybuilding that it isn't actually the work put in the gym that makes gains, but rather the amount that you rest that yields the greatest dividends. But before I go to sleep I've been putting in hard work. I've recently added in a few new wrinkles to my strength and conditioning training with Jon & Olivia at DTS Performance in Longwood,FL. I train 2 to 3 times a day at The Jungle MMA & Fitness under my BJJ coach Mike "The Bald Eagle" Lee and the F2/Iron Monkey Fight Team, or I train my standup with Chris Nuckolls or Roberto Rios. I've also started beating up high school kids (and the occasional over the hill coach) at Orlando's Westside Wrestling Club.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training on the mean streets of Swansea, Massachusetts during my formative years. After moving to Ft. Myers, FL I began to wrestle while attending Estero High School. I continued wrestling at the University of Central Florida, and took my first BJJ classes at JBA Jiu-Jitsu in Fall River, MA while home visiting family. After getting tapped out by leg-lock master extraordinaire Don Banville, I was hooked (literally....heel hooked)!

What titles have you held? 3x National Collegiate Wrestling Association National Champion

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means that all the hard work I have put in at the gyms, destroying my body is worth it in the long run. It also means that the amount of people watching TV around the world will sky-rocket due to my beauty.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I currently have a B.S. in Social Studies Education from the University of Central Florida. I have also taken classes towards a M.A. in Sports & Fitness, but I'm not sure if I will finish because I am already a master of fitness.

What was your job before you started fighting? Before I began fighting I applied my trade as an independent professional wrestler, and then used my college degree as a High School History teacher for almost 2 years.

Favorite grappling technique: It's all about the D'Arce Choke!

Favorite Striking technique: Left straight to the body