TRAINING: I get up around 7:30 every morning and go to the YMCA where I swim and run. I rest during the day and then go do a strength and condtioning workout around 3pm at a gym called Applied Strength. In the evening I go to my fight gym, Duneland Vale Tudo, to do MMA training. I generally take a long walk before I go to bed to help keep my weight down.

When and why did you start training for fighting? 1997

What ranks and titles have you held? No ranks, FFC Welterweight champion

Do you have any heroes? No heroes

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It's an exciting opportunity for me. It's been a goal of mine for quite some time.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Attended Purdue North Central, still a few credits shy of a degree.

What was your job before you started fighting? I was and still am a member of Ironworkers Local 395.

Favorite grappling technique: Rear Choke

Favorite Striking technique: Straight Right hand

•    Pro since 1998

•    Had 6-4 record between UFC appearances

•    Six wins by knockout, 15 by submission

•    Also owns wins over Jorge Santiago, Steve Berger, Derrick Noble, and Carlo Prater

•    Has faced Shinya Aoki, Jorge Masvidal, Rory Markham, Jason Black, and Shonie Carter