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LAS VEGAS, NV - MAY 25: Darren Elkins makes weight during the UFC 146 official weigh in at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 25, 2012 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Darren Elkins

TRAINING: I do some pads and sparring in the morning followed by grappling. Then I do my strength and conditioning (powercleans, sled work, squats, sprints, flipping the tire, hitting the tire). Then I do a night session which consists of either grappling or standup.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training MMA because I grew up watching the old UFC's and I saw how good the wrestlers were doing and wanted to do it ever since. I have been training for almost four years now.

What ranks and titles have you held? I am a C3 lightweight champion

Do you have any heroes? None

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means a lot for me to be in the UFC because it’s the Super Bowl of MMA. I’ve always dreamed about some day fighting in the UFC.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I went to college for two years at University of Wisconsin Parkside and didn’t earn a degree.

What was your job before you started fighting? I am a Local 597 pipefitter

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? I was an Indiana state high school wrestling champion. I finished my high school career with 191-9 record. I was a 4 time freestyle wrestling champion and 2 time greco state champion.

Favorite grappling technique: guillotine and a rear naked choke.

Favorite Striking technique: straight right and Muay Thai knees