TRAINING: Two a days working on grappling and striking – technical work, drilling, sparring, and pad work.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training for fighting when I was 16 years old. It was something I sort of fell into. I saw the UFC in ’93 and really wanted to get involved in it.  I was already training in standup fighting and ground fighting when the first UFC happened, and I thought that it was something I’d love to do. I had a natural progression after that.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? The UFC is the premier organization, the biggest and best, and it’s an honor to be fighting and displaying my skills here.  It’s really exciting.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Some college, no degree.

What was your job before you started fighting? Fighting has been my only job, but I’m also a martial arts instructor.

Ranks in any martial arts styles: Green belt in Tae Kwon Do, and a Green belt in judo.

Favorite grappling technique: The one that wins the fight for me.

Favorite Striking technique: Knee strikes. 

• Stoppage loss to Nelson was one of the most controversial finishes in UFC history.

• One of MMA’s most exciting fighters

• 16-year pro MMA veteran

• Engaged in classic two-fight series with Yves Edwards in HooknShoot organization that was so good a DVD was issued commemorating it.

• 10 wins by submission, nine by KO

• Has faced Edwards (twice), Falaniko Vitale, Steve Berger, Chris Lytle, Sam Morgan, Michihiro Omigawa, and Eddie Alvarez in non-UFC action.