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SEATTLE, WA - DECEMBER 05: Alexander Gustafsson works out for fans and media during the UFC on FOX open workouts on December 5, 2012 at the Grand Hyatt Seattle in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Alexander Gustafsson

TRAINING: I train two times a day here in Sweden at my home club Nexus Fighter Centre with my head coach Andreas Michael. The first practice is more conditioning, and the second practice is MMA, grappling, boxing, etc.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started to train MMA in 2006 and before that I trained in boxing. It feels so real when you’re standing in the cage next to your opponent. I just like it a lot.

What ranks and titles have you held? I have ranked number 10 in Europe and have no titles.

Do you have any heroes? My idol is Fedor Emelianenko.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means everything to me; it is my goal to be a part of the show.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I have no degrees

What was your job before you started fighting? I did boxing and scuba diving.

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? In amateur boxing, I won against the Swedish champion.

Favorite grappling technique: Rear naked choke

Favorite Striking technique: Start with a hard right punch