DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY OF TRAINING: I learned a lot from my fight with Rashad (Evans).  I started my two a days at 10 weeks out for this fight, but didn't start paying any attention to my diet until 5 weeks out.  That kept me fresh and very motivated.  Typically, I am doing any sort of sparring workout in the morning and a lifting and conditioning workout in the evening.  I have also resumed training at Jorge Gurgel's gym in West Chester.  It is a bit of a commute, but well worth it. 

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training with Rex Holman in November of 2005. I had just retired from freestyle wrestling and I enjoyed it so much just working out with him that I decided to give it a shot. 

What ranks and titles have you held? Legends of Fighting champion and numerous wrestling titles and honors.

Do you have any heroes? Lance Armstrong and my wife, it is just incredible the way she is raising me and our son. 

What is your favorite technique? I love any kind of advanced wrestling or jiu jitsu.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It is a big honor to get called up, but in reality it is just a new starting point.  My goal is to become the best fighter in the world at 205lbs. and to do that I had to get to the UFC. 

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Two years at Ohio State, one year at Columbus State, and I still plan on finishing sometime before my son.  

What was your job before you started fighting? Humble bartender.