Al Iaquinta

TRAINING: I train wrestling or Brazilian jiu-jitsu in the morning at Matt Serra's gym and stand-up at night with Ray Longo. I usually finish up with strength and conditioning.

Thoughts on opponent, Joe Lauzon? Joe Lauzon is the biggest test of my career. I have tremendous respect for him as a fighter and a person. This is what I have worked my whole life for and it is an honor to fight him. I am not looking for a Fight of the Night bonus, but I am prepared to fight hard for three rounds. The win I am looking for is complete domination, displaying the skills I have worked so hard to perfect.

When and why did you start training for fighting? 2006. I got finished with the college wrestling season and one of my buddies was doing it, so I went down to the gym, tried it out, got beat up a little bit, and I had to learn it.

What ranks and titles have you held? TUF Live finalist, Nassau County runner-up in wrestling, USKBA Amateur MMA 160lb North East Championship, Extreme Challenge Trials Lightweight Champion, Combat in the Cage MMA Lightweight Champion, USKBA Amateur Thaiboxing East coast Super Middleweight Champion, and former Ring of Combat lightweight champion

Do you have any heroes? My father

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? One step closer to the ultimate goal of being the best.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Associates degree from Nassau Community College

What was your job before you started fighting? Personal trainer

Ranks in any martial arts styles: Matt Serra Jiu-Jitsu purple belt

Favorite grappling technique: Splado

Favorite striking technique: Head kick