Thoughts on opponent, Alex Munoz? Very talented fighter, aggressive but reckless.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started wrestling in 2000 because my neighbor was joining & we used to watch WWE together.  I had no idea what I was getting myself in to but it worked out. I started MMA in 2004 after my friend Pete Bencivenga convinced me to start training after watching Shamrock vs Tito 1

What titles have you held? XFC Lightweight World Champion, NAFL Lightweight Champion

Do you have any heroes? Jim Abbott..... enough said

What would it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It’s why I started fighting

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Western New England University -Bachelors in Communication with a minor in Philosophy 

What was your job before you started fighting? I worked 3 ½ years as a master control operator for the History Channel and A&E

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? Over 300 wrestling wins. Connecticut state record holder for wins in a season

Ranks in any martial arts styles: BJJ black belt

Favorite grappling technique: Sharpshooter 

Favorite Striking technique: Elbows

• Pro since 2009

• Two wins by KO, nine by submission (Neck crank, 2 guillotine, 3 RNC, heel hook, 2 armbar)

• 11 first round finishes

• Lone loss in 2014 to UFC lightweight contender Justin Gaethje

• On three fight winning streak

• Origin of nickname: “I got it in middle school during a Natural Helpers trip.”