Training: On alternating days in the morning is Strength and Conditioning. In the evening it is either pad work and grappling or Sparring and MMA drills.

When and why did you start training for fighting?  I started training in wrestling at 15. When I was 19 I picked up boxing in the Marine Corps. I then moved on to BJJ and Muay Thai at 23. Then I helped some friends get ready for their MMA fights. I decided to give it a try and I became hooked. I had my first MMA fight when I was 26.

What ranks and titles have you held? WKA featherweight National Champion, Cagefest featherweight Champion, Purple belt under Pedro Sauer, LINXX Black Belt Instructor

Do you have any heroes? My mother Rose Semerzier

What is your favorite technique? RNC

What does it mean for you to fight in the WEC? It means everything to me right now. I have dreamed of being in this organization for a long time. I’m here, and now I’m ready to show the world that I belong, and one day become the champion in one of the weight classes

What was your job before you started fighting? I am currently employed by Linxx Global Solutions as a Lead Combatives Instructor.

Most memorable professional fight (who, where, why)? Ryan Lamareux in Concord, NC. It went past the first round.

What was your most challenging professional fight (against who, when, what was the outcome)? Ryan Lamareux in Concord, NC it was a tough three round fight that I finally finished with a RNC.

Who were your training partners for this fight? I trained with my regular team of guys in Virgina. LINXX Academy, 7 Cities Boxing, HTC. I have a good team and didn't have a reason to change up what I've been doing here.

Did you put more emphasis towards a fighting style or adjust your training to prepare for your opponent (what did you do differently/why)? A majority of my training is spent focusing on all aspects of the game. Becoming a better Wrestler, Boxer, Jiu-Jitsu player, Kick boxer. And then about 3-4 weeks out from the fight me and my team start to focus the training more on MMA and the opponent that I am scheduled to fight.

What, other than WINNING, are you using for motivation for the fight? I would like to win first and if possible put on a great show doing it. I would like to get the fan hype machine behind me, which would bring the sponsors more behind me, so that I wouldn't have to work a 9 to 5 between my training sessions. Supporting my family is always my deepest motivation.

What is your favorite thing about this sport? I love it all. Striking, Clinching, Takedowns and Grappling. Just so many options to win the fight.

How long do you see yourself staying in this sport? As long as GOD gives me the strength to compete at a high level.