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TRAINING: I typically do two practices daily with my teammates and coaches at the Blackzilians. The weekly schedule includes striking, wrestling, BJJ, boxing, strength and conditioning and two hard sparring practices.

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When and why did you start training for fighting? I boxed as a young kid and wrestled when I was young and into high school. I fought a lot on the street just because I had to, so I always knew how to handle myself. I did well in high school wrestling and took a couple State and Catholic League titles. I couldn’t afford to go to college right away after high school so I started working and discovered an MMA gym near where I grew up. A friend invited me to train for a day and that was it. I fell in love.

What ranks and titles have you held? I’ve been champion in almost every organization I’ve fought for including Reality FC, MFC, Bodog, and Bellator. I’ve been ranked as high as #2 in the world (in 2009), which is very difficult to do being outside the UFC. I was a finalist in three of Japan’s DREAM Tournaments. I’ve been a champion or held a title belt for the majority of my MMA career. NOT being champion doesn’t feel natural for me.

Do you have any heroes? When I was young I always wanted to be a TMNT (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle). As far as other fighters I’ve looked up to, Shogun was always a favorite of mine.

What does it mean for you to fight in UFC? For me it’s just another step toward my goal of being recognized by not just some fans but ALL fans as being the best lightweight in the world. I’ve controlled what I can control and taken the necessary steps to put myself in the position I’m in at this moment. Timing was crucial for me. Yes, I would have liked to come to the UFC a little sooner, but I think my experience is going to be a huge advantage compared to lots of other fighters who get here when they’re young and immature and go, “Whoa, what am I getting myself into?”

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? No, I couldn’t afford to go to college after I finished high school. I was offered a few athletic scholarships (for wrestling) but the balance of tuition was just too expensive for my family. Although I didn’t do college, I consider myself to be a very learned individual. I read a ton of books. I’m always reading at least one book at any given time. I’ve read about fighting, philosophy, war, psychology, success and business. I also read a lot about family and I constantly work on becoming a better husband and father. I’m always learning and trying to evolve as a human being.

What was your job before you started fighting? I worked for a concrete company…carrying cinder blocks and digging ditches all day pretty much. I actually liked it. I liked building stuff. But I knew I couldn’t do it forever.

Ranks in any martial arts styles? I’m not belted in BJJ but I roll with BJJ black belts all the time and hold my own.

Favorite grappling technique? I like the rear naked choke. I’ve used it successfully a lot.

Favorite striking technique? Boxing