When and why did you start training for fighting? I started fighting in Atlanta, Georgia in 2014. I grew up fighting. I had three scholarships after winning two state championships in 2009 in Georgia high school. I had a kid right after I got out of school, so I had to start working instead of school. I ended up going to a fight gym to check it out. Now I’m on top of the world. The rest is history.
What ranks and titles have you held? The King of Sparta flyweight 8-man tournament champion (2019), Valor bantamweight champion (2019)
What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means everything. I may be able to quit my job and fight MMA full-time. I worked my ass off to get here. Some people’s paths are easier than others. My path has been difficult but well worth it. No matter what happens, I give it my all.
What was your job before you started fighting? Construction worker
Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? 5-1 as an amateur
Specific accomplishments in pro competition? I fought three times in one night in Colorado in May 2019. It was an 8-man tournament. Boxing, kickboxing, and the last fight was MMA. I got into the tournament on 2 days’ notice and Justin Gaejthe was my corner. I made it to the finals and KOed the guy in 39 seconds. Won 10k, didn’t get hit, left with a pocket full of money. 4-0 in boxing.
Ranks in any martial arts styles: Blue belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu
Favorite grappling technique: Armbar
Favorite Striking technique: Straight cross down the pipe.
TRAINING : Wake up, go to work, get off work. Go straight to the gym for two hours or so. Outwork everyone in the gym.