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 99

LAS VEGAS, NV - MAY 29: Raquel Pennington (L) punches Tonya Evinger in their elimination fight during filming of season eighteen of The Ultimate Fighter on May 29, 2013 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Al Powers/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Raquel Pennington

TRAINING: A typical day for training for this fight and every other fight is the same. I usually train twice a day - MMA first 9-11 then again 1-3 and strength and conditioning to finish my evening. I’m always growing as a fighter and working to become better; the only thing that changes is when we get an opponent my coaches and training partners break them down and mimic them and I just focus on my skills and abilities and get it done.

Thoughts on opponent, Holly Holm? I think Holly is a great boxer and has done well in that aspect. As far as MMA, I don't think she has had a true challenge in the sport. I think, like every opponent, she isn't invincible and she has her weaknesses that I plan to capitalize on.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training at the age of 19. I always wanted to fight but my parents never let me. In my senior yet I broke my back snowboarding and was rehabbing my back. Then I joined fighting to become more active.

What ranks and titles have you held? As an amateur I was 7-1 with five titles - three at 135lbs, one at 130lb and one at 125lb 0 and ranked number one in the US. Before TUF as a pro I was 3-3 and I hold the world bantamweight/Hawaiian islands champion of Destiny MMA.

Do you have any heroes? My hero is my mom.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? To fight in the UFC is every fighter’s dream come true. For me, it's a great accomplishment making it as high in the promotion as I can go and a life change for not only me, but my family. It’s also a way to reach out to the people in the world and tell my story and show them it's possible for them to achieve their dreams as well.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I am currently in college doing pre-med in hopes of going to med school to be a doctor.

What was your job before you started fighting? I worked at SAMs club, driving the forklift, stocking the freezers/cooler, while going to school and training.

Favorite grappling technique: Triangle

Favorite striking technique: 1-3-2 liver kick