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OMAHA, NE - FEBRUARY 14: (L-R) Opponents Anton Kuivanen and Justin Salas face off after weighing in during the UFC on FUEL TV weigh in event at Omaha Civic Auditorium on February 14, 2012 in Omaha, Nebraska. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Anton Kuivanen; Justin Salas; Dana White

Anton Kuivanen

TRAINING: I’m working hard every day to win this fight. I’m improving my speed, endurance and working on some secret techniques. I'm wrestling, grappling and striking with bunch of great fighters to make a statement in the Octagon at UFC 157!

When and why did you start training for fighting? I’ve always done lots of different sports. As a youngster I played ice hockey and soccer on a high level. I got bored with that, and started boxing 2003. I went to the practice and enjoyed it a lot. Then in 2004 I went to watch an MMA event, and watching the fights I felt that I gotta try that sport. Shortly after that I had my first MMA training session at a nearby gym and fell in love with it immediately. I’ve been training and fighting since.

What ranks and titles have you held? MMA amateur Finnish champion 2006, Cage Promotions lightweight champion since April 2011.

Do you have any heroes? My girlfriend

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It's a long time dream come true, and an opportunity for me to test myself against the best guys.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? No.

What was your job before you started fighting? I've had many part time jobs; my last job before becoming a pro was an operator in a laser tag track.

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? 8-0 record with 4 KOs

Favorite grappling technique: Flying armbar

Favorite Striking technique: Liver shot