TRAINING: Light jogging in the morning, pad work with Murat Keshtov, sparring session with Adlan Amagov, grappling session with Rustam Chsiev. Cross training with AMA Fight Club

When and why did you start training for fighting? In 2008 I decided to start competing in MMA under the guidance of my father. I had secured a few Combat Sambo awards by that time. My first fight I finished in the second round by RNC and was awarded submission of the night.
What ranks and titles have you held? 2 x Russian Combat Sambo and 2 x World Sambo Champion

Do you have any heroes? My childhood friend Eldar Eldarov

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It’s my childhood dream and can tell you that I have seen all of UFC’s fights. This is something I was doing while other kids played video games

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I graduated from Financial Academy with honors

What was your job before you started fighting? I am dedicated to fighting and I did not have to work except for training youth and children in wrestling.

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? M-1 Selection Champion

Ranks in any martial arts styles: Internationally recognized Sambo Master

Favorite grappling technique: Free Style Wrestling, double and single leg takedowns

Favorite Striking technique: Thai Clinch, knees and elbows

•    Pro since 2008

•    Stablemate of Strikeforce middleweight Adlan Amagov

•    Six wins by KO, seven by submission

•    Has finished last nine wins