Close Thumbnails

Getty Images reserves the right to pursue unauthorized users of this image or clip. If you violate our intellectual property you may be liable for: actual damages, loss of income, and profits you derive from the use of this image or clip, and, where appropriate, the costs of collection and/or statutory damages up to $150,000 (USD).

photo 1 of 25

LAS VEGAS, NV - MAY 25: (L-R) Opponents Edson Barboza and Jamie Varner face off after making 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)

Jamie Varner

TRAINING: Three workouts a day, five days a week. As I get closer to the fight I cut it down to two workouts a day, five days a week.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I love to compete, and the high you get after a win is indescribable. I wrestled in college and boxed growing up so it was just the next step.

What ranks and titles have you held? Former WEC Lightweight Champion. I was an NJCAA All-American national runner-up, and wrestled D1 in Pennsylvania. I was also a NCBA national champ in boxing.

Do you have any heroes? My family, training partners and my coaches

What is your favorite technique? Sleeping people, whether by submission or by KO.

What does it mean for you to fight in the WEC? It doesn’t mean anything until I make my mark and win the title.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I went to Lock Haven University of PA. I studied Accounting.

What was your job before you started fighting? Project manager for a construction company.

Most memorable professional fight (who, where, why)? Knocking out Razor Rob McCullough.

What was your most challenging professional fight (against who, when, what was the outcome)? Hermes Franca

Did you compete in any other sport(s) at college or professional level (what sport, where, how long)? I was an NJCAA All-American national runner-up, and wrestled D1 in Pennsylvania. I was also a NCBA national champ in boxing.

Who were your training partners for this fight? Jeremy Larsen, Zach Certica, andEstevan Payan

Did you put more emphasis towards a fighting style or adjust your training to prepare for your opponent (what did you do differently/why)? I really focused on my strength and conditioning. After the Ben fight I got right back in the gym and really focused on getting my strength back. That was a major emphasis in the first part of this camp.

What, other than WINNING, are you using for motivation for the fight? Obviously to get that world title back.

What is your favorite thing about this sport? I love the competition. That’s what keeps me motivated.

How long do you see yourself staying in this sport? I can’t put a time frame on it. There are other things I’d like to accomplish in my life, like being a dad and a grandfather, but right now fighting and being a world champion is the most important thing to me.