TRAINING: Strength and conditioning in the morning, technique practice in the afternoon and team practice in the evening

When and why did you start training for fighting? I began training in martial arts as soon as I could walk. This is the family business. I have been training for the UFC my entire life.

What ranks and titles have you held? Black belt in Shudokan Karate, Excite Fight lightweight and featherweight champion.

Do you have any heroes? My father has always been my hero. He’s the baddest dude out here.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? This is what I have been training for my whole life and this is where I belong. Everyone will understand soon.

What was your job before you started fighting? Martial Arts instructor and personal trainer

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? I won eight titles as an amateur

Favorite grappling technique: Chokes

Favorite Striking technique: Anything that ends in a knockout

• Pro since 2012

• Extensive amateur background

• Seven wins by KO, five by submission (Triangle, 2 RNC, 2 guillotine)

• Eleven first round finishes

• Has won 13 of his last 16

• Six wins in under two minutes

• Origin of nickname: “I was given it by an announcer because I was wearing gold fight shorts.”