TRAINING: Working full time at Best Buy, often run two miles to and from work, then train nightly at Ambition MMA. If I work at night, I train early instead, and still run to and from work, despite the cold.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training in June of '09. I wrestled through school and some college, and needed a platform to compete afterward. It was a natural fit.

What ranks and titles have you held? I was the Brutaal Genesis regional featherweight champion as an amateur.

Do you have any heroes? Not really. I admire the humble fighters of the UFC, like Georges St-Pierre and Jonathan Brookins.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? How cliché can I be? It is a dream come true! I'm fighting for time. With a UFC contract, I don't have to work full-time. I can spend more time with the people I care about, doing things I want to do.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I went to Minnesota State University-Moorhead, but left after my second year.

What was your job before you started fighting? I have worked retail for six years. I now work at Best Buy and was just promoted to Operations Supervisor.

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? I was the Brutaal Genesis featherweight champion, which is a regional title. I won ten amateur fights in a row with tough competition each time.

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? I won Submission of the Night for Warrior One MMA in Halifax. It was really a summary of my relaxed and unorthodox style.

Favorite grappling technique: Wrestling

Favorite Striking technique: Muay Thai

•    Unbeaten as an amateur

•    Pro since 2010

•    Has finished all wins – three by submission, two by KO