TRAINING: Every day is different in training camp and I'm constantly working on different things, but like always, Charles Kipilii has been running my striking and I've been getting beat up by animals like Russell Doane, Martin Day, Edward Thommes, Ryan Dela Cruz, Micah Abreu, Zane Kamaka, Ian Dela Cuesta and Lowen Tynanes along with the rest of the guys at Hawaii Elite MMA, and Devin Moynihan has been putting me on an incredible strength and conditioning program. Then my guys, Andrew Takata and Co. at Performance Rehab Ortho (PRO), have been keeping my body healthy and fight ready.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training in martial arts at a very young age, first with karate at the age of five.  I have always loved fighting and it has always been my passion.  Something about it just captured my imagination from a very young age.

What ranks and titles have you held? None

Do you have any heroes? Russell Doane, Ron Jhun, BJ Penn, Fedor Emelianenko, Jose Aldo

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means the world to me. I have wanted to make my living fighting ever since I was a kid and I have wanted to be a UFC fighter ever since I first watched it, so to actually have my dreams come to fruition is an amazing feeling.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I went to community college, but I dropped out my sophomore year to pursue fighting full-time.

What was your job before you started fighting? I worked as a mascot for Papa John’s and as a dishwasher for a sushi restaurant.

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? X-1 World events 135-pound amateur champion, Destiny MMA Fight of the Night winner

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? PXC Flyweight World Champion, three-time Fight of the Night winner

Ranks in any martial arts styles: Junior Brown Belt in Kempo Karate, Brown Belt in Judo

Favorite grappling technique: D'arce Choke

Favorite striking technique: Jab

 

• Pro since 2012

• Five wins by submission (Brabo, armbar, 3 RNC), three by KO

• Two first round finishes

• On four-fight winning streak

• Had 2-1 amateur record