Training: First practice is a kickboxing workout with Antoni Hardonk or Jiu-jitsu with Henry Akins at their gym, Dynamix, in Santa Monica. Second practice is strength and conditioning at Velocity Sports. Third practice is wrestling/MMA with Vladimir Matyushenko at his gym, VMAT, in El Segundo.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training in November of 2005. I
had played collegiate football and began coaching, but being a very active person, I needed something to keep the warrior alive inside; that’s when I started training in MMA. A buddy of mine came up to me after a game I was coaching and said he was training and I should come check it out. I went to the first MMA class with Brian Warren at Unbreakable gym in San Bernardino, CA and started boxing with Chris Barber. I’ve never looked back since.

What ranks and titles have you held? IFC Cruiser weight title (205-230lbs), All conference Defensive End for University of Redlands

Do you have any heroes? Jesus Christ. Mike Maynard - University of Redlands head football coach.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It is an awesome opportunity and I’m very thankful and blessed to get the chance to test myself against the best. I’m also very excited because I feel getting invited to the UFC legitimizes a lot of the people who helped me out. There’s no chance I’d be here without them. God has truly blessed me. Soli Deo Gloria!

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I attended University of Redlands, B.A. in History.

What was your job before you started fighting? Substitute Teacher and college football coach.

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? IFC Cruiser weight Tournament champ, belt holder

Favorite grappling technique: Janitor Defense

Favorite Striking technique: Antoni Hardonk's "3 inch" punch