TRAINING: I have two kids. They go with me to the gym in the morning for strength and conditioning and again in the afternoon at the MMA Lab. When their mom gets off work, we switch and I drive out to Arizona Combat Sports for another training session.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training in 2008 at Arizona Combat Sports. I started fighting because my son was going to be born. A lot of my old college wrestling teammates had begun successful careers, and I believed I could do the same.

What ranks and titles have you held? Trilogy Championship Fighting Bantamweight champion, Rage in the Cage Bantamweight champion.

Do you have any heroes? My kids, they saved my life. Also, Richard Fimbres and Frank Saenz, my high school wrestling coaches.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It is the biggest opportunity in my life and for my family. I’m excited to show how hard I have been working and to earn a permanent spot on the roster.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Arizona State University. I didn’t finish for financial reasons, but I’m only 15 credit hours away from a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies.

What was your job before you started fighting? Retail, wrestling coach

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? Two-time All-American University Freestyle Wrestling.

If any, list ranks in any martial arts styles: Chingon in the art of Chingasos

• Pro since 2009

• Eight wins by submission (4 guillotine, 2 armbar, triangle, RNC), two by KO

• Former Arizona State University wrestler

• Five first round finishes