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 24

ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 20: Welterweight fighters Keith Wisniewski (L) and Chris Clements square off during the UFC 145 official weigh in at Fox Theatre on April 20, 2012 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Al Bello/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Chris Clements

TRAINING: 7am - 6mile run. 10am - wrestling or strength and conditioning. 11am - grappling or MMA sparring. 6pm - Boxing/kickboxing.

When and why did you start training for fighting? Since the very first UFC I always wanted to fight in the UFC, but didn’t start MMA till I was 26. I always did different martial arts and boxing. But 10 years ago, MMA and BJJ gyms were hard to come by.

What ranks and titles have you held? I am the current welterweight champion for Ringside MMA and Professional Fight Championships and the middleweight champion for XCC.

Do you have any heroes? I have people I respect for their accomplishments but no heroes.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? To fight in the UFC is the one accomplishment that I am most proud of in my life. It was my dream. I earned it and never gave up on it. I had a long road to get here. The harder the mountain is to climb, the better you feel once you reach the top.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I went to college to become a fitness trainer. I never finished my degree, but I am a trainer now.

What was your job before you started fighting? I worked in a factory building transport trucks

Ranks in any martial arts styles: I am a black belt in taekwondo.

Favorite grappling technique: Every choke. Can't breathe. Can't fight

Favorite Striking technique: Elbow