Jeff Hougland

TRAINING: Mornings - I work on my strength & conditioning with my coach David Paterik. Then recover at PureO2 Healing in the hyperbaric chamber. I'm back in the gym in the evening for MMA training

When and why did you start training for fighting? I began in 1999. I was a street kid headed to prison and didn't want that life. Training gave me purpose and really turned my life around.

What ranks and titles have you held? Black belt in BJJ under Lotus Club, Featherweight Champ at Rumble on the Ridge.

Do you have any heroes? My dad, then of course all of my coaches

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? More than I can explain. It makes all of the hard work the last several years all worth something.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? No college for this guy.

What was your job before you started fighting? Rental yard, machinist and a gang of other jobs I hated.

Ranks in any martial arts styles: BJJ black belt

Favorite grappling technique: arm bar

Favorite Striking technique: The jab