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James Wilks

Training: I split my day into two training sessions. I usually do one tough session sparring or drilling with Kickboxing with takedowns or Jiu-Jitsu with punches. The second session of the day will be more technical, coming up with specific counters and a game plan.

When and why did you start training for fighting? My dad introduced me to Karate when I was eight. I did this for 2 years on and off, then started back up with Tae Kwon Do when I was 15. From there I became passionate about martial arts and it evolved from there.

What ranks and titles have you held? The Ultimate Fighter season nine welterweight winner, Gladiator Challenge Welterweight Champion, Gracie US Nationals NO-Gi Advanced Gold Medalist, 2008

Do you have any heroes? Bruce Lee

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means a lot for me to fight in the UFC. It is the UFC which inspired me to cross train in different martial arts at an early age and led to me competing in MMA.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Yes, Bachelors with Honors in Business and Land Management

What was your job before you started fighting? Since I left college I have taught martial arts
Ranks in any martial arts styles: Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Black Belt Tae Kwon Do, Full Instructor Jeet Kune Do, Representative Instructor - Combat Submission Wrestling under Erik Paulson, United States Marine Corps - Subject Matter Expert (Empty Hand and Edged Weapons)

Favorite grappling technique: Rear Naked Choke

Favorite Striking technique: Knee