TRAINING: The morning sessions are either padwork with my Muay Thai coach, or sparring. Afternoon sessions are Jiu Jitsu and wrestling, or strength and conditioning.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I decided to train for competitive fighting back in 2002 after 14 years of traditional martial arts. The truth is, though, I started martial arts when I was a kid because I wanted to be just like the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!

What ranks and titles have you held? The Cage Warriors Light-Welterweight (73kgs) and Welterweight World titles.

Do you have any heroes? My family is full of them.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means that all of my hard work has paid off and now I can prove myself amongst the best fighters in the world.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I have a diploma in higher education in Art and Design and went on the University to do Contemporary Art but left after two years to pursue a career in mixed martial arts.

What was your job before you started fighting? I was a fitness advisor and personal trainer.

Ranks in any martial arts styles: 1st Dan Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do and Purple Belt in Jiu-Jitsu under Eddie Bravo

Favorite grappling technique: 'The East Coast Croc'

Favorite Striking technique: Head Kick

Love for China: Endured gruelling training with Shaolin monks in China. Has also trained boxing under Freddie Roach at Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles.
 
Hobbies: Fond of classic cars, punk music and video games.
 
Family Values: His sister, Gemma, climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro to raise money for cancer charities.