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 74

Yves Edwards & John Gunderson

Yves Edwards

TRAINING: Hard. I play "face punching" with some of the best pro boxers in the country, then I go rest so I can play "throw you down" with some high level wrestlers. It's enough to make a guy sweat!

When and why did you start training for fighting? I first started training some submission grappling and Muay Thai in ’96 I think. I was just like everyone back then I wanted to learn the stuff that was working in UFC.

What ranks and titles have you held? I’ve held a few titles. I was the HnS Middleweight Champion for their Open rules. I also held their 170lbs title for their Shooto style rules. I’ve also held a few titles here in Texas the ISWF middle weight title and the PWR 170lbs belt.

Do you have any heroes? I have a few heroes, but most of them have superpowers, but of the ones without powers I'd have to say my wife and kids top that list. With Batman taking a respectable second place

What is your favorite technique? I don’t have one particular favorite, but if you put a gun to my head and made me choose I would have to say “Please don’t shoot me I don’t want to die.”

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? The UFC is a different beast now than it was just 7 years ago, so to be in the UFC means I have another shot at being the best in the world.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I did go to college but was unable to graduate because my fighting career was taking off and the training became very time consuming. My major was accounting at the time.

What was your job before you started fighting? I worked as a teller and in sales at a bank that shall remain nameless.