When and why did you start training for fighting? I started my professional career six years ago and it seems that it’s working out for me. In Dagestan, every average person is doing martial arts, so I'm just an average Dagestani guy.

What ranks and titles have you held? Two-time World, three-time Russian champion of amateur MMA.  Greco-Roman champion of Dagestan. Master of sports in Combat Sambo, International master of sport in amateur MMA 

Do you have any heroes? No

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It's a very good opportunity for me to test myself with the top fighters in the world.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I graduated DGPU - Sport Faculty 

What was your job before you started fighting?  My job is in my GYM.

Specific accomplishments in pro competition?  WFCA light heavyweight champion of the world.

Favorite grappling technique: My favorite one is the Suplex, but I don't know how to do it.

Favorite Striking technique: The one that knocks an opponent down.

• Pro since 2014

• Four wins by KO

• Four first round finishes

• Owns May 2017 KO win over UFC vet Wagner Prado