TRAINING: I don't really consider any one day typical; each day is unique and filled with its own challenges. I believe I am like most fighters today, strength and conditioning on certain days, wrestling, boxing, Judo, etc...on other days. I believe my training is best summed up the Tanzanian Marathon Runner, Juma Ikangaa, "The will to win means nothing without the will to prepare."
When and why did you start training for fighting? I have been training my entire life for fighting. I like to tell people that as soon at I could stand up my dad knocked me down. After my career as an NCAA wrestler I was fortunate to meet Julio Fernandez and Carlson Gracie. I have been training with both of them since 1999.
What ranks and titles have you held? BJJ Brown Belt/ 1998 NCAA DIII - All-American/ 2000 North American Grappling Association Overall Super Heavyweight Champion
Do you have any heroes? Randy Couture comes to mind, but God is always at the top of the list.
What is your favorite technique? Most submissions. I love arm bars and the sound of another man choking.
What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? The UFC is the epitome of reality, there is nothing more real and of greater importance to me in my fight career than to compete for the BEST and highest rated organization in the WORLD.
Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? State University of New York at Brockport, Brockport, New York Bachelor of Science: Psychology May AD 1998: Summa Cum Laude [3.81 GPA]
HONORS AND AWARDS: Dean’s List (All Semesters)/ 1998 Psychology Department Scholar Finalist, SUNY Brockport
1997 Inductee: Alpha Chi – National Honor Society/ 1998 Inductee: Psi Chi – National Honor Society in Psychology
1997, 1996 National Collegiate Athletic Association Academic All-American/ 1997 Scholar Athlete Award, SUNY Brockport
1997 Alumni Scholarship Recipient, SUNY Brockport/ 1997 National Finalist NCAA Division III Wrestling Tournament at 190lbs
What was your job before you started fighting? Fortunately I am still employed with one of the greatest companies in the railroad industry today, RailAmerica. I am a corporate Director for their rail traffic control center (similar to air traffic control). I am responsible for 23 railroads in 23 US states. I was also the individual who conceptualized and started the center. I have a great amount of responsibility and handle every aspect of this multi million dollar company.
