TRAINING: Jiu-Jitsu in the morning, boxing and conditioning at night

When and why did you start training for fighting? I lived in a rough area so I started fighting at age five.

What ranks and titles have you held? Respect in the Cage and RFA featherweight champion

Do you have any heroes? My dad

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? All my hard work paid off and got me here; I want to see what I can do now in the UFC.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? No

What was your job before you started fighting? I still teach Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Academy in Torrance, CA

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? Undefeated in amateur career, all finishes

Ranks in any martial arts styles: Gracie Jiu-Jitsu black belt

Favorite grappling technique: Triangle

Favorite striking technique: Jab

•    Pro since 2010

•    Five wins by submission, four by decision

•    Three wins by triangle choke

•    Four first round finishes

•    Has gone the five round championship distance twice