Close Thumbnails

Getty Images reserves the right to pursue unauthorized users of this image or clip. If you violate our intellectual property you may be liable for: actual damages, loss of income, and profits you derive from the use of this image or clip, and, where appropriate, the costs of collection and/or statutory damages up to $150,000 (USD).

photo 1 of 26

LAS VEGAS, NV - MAY 31: (L-R) Opponents Justin Lawrence and John Cofer face off after making weight during The Ultimate Fighter Live weigh in at the Palms Casino Resort on May 31, 2012 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Justin Lawrence; John Cofer

Justin Lawrence

When and why did you start training for fighting? I was kind of born and raised in the family gym. My dad opened his gym in 1993, and when your dad owns a gym and the only place you can go after school and during the summer is to the gym, I can say I’ve trained since I was six years old. I was born to be a fighter

What ranks and titles have you held? Six-time IKF national kickboxing champion. Two-time Pan American kickboxing champion.

Do you have any heroes? My pop Benny Voyles

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It’s the top organization. I’ve spent way too much time fighting and training and spending countless hours doing double leg shots, so I deserve nothing less than fighting in the UFC just because of that. You’ve got guys who just started training five years ago. I’ve been doing it for 15 years. So if you put that much time and effort into something, you deserve to be at the top.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I went to college for a year and a half for my associates in Criminal Justice, but I still have 30 hours left.

What was your job before you started fighting? Nothing. I just trained full-time and taught at my dad’s gym.

Ranks in any martial arts styles: Black belt in kempo karate

Favorite grappling technique: Double leg takedown

Favorite Striking technique: Left hook