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Riddle vs. Johnson

Matthew Riddle

TRAINING: 3-4 times a day, consisting of running, Jits - gi and no gi, sparring and mitts

When and why did you start training for fighting? I was wrestling D1 in college and my head coach got fired. I lost my scholarship because of that and one of my friends, Scott, called me up and asked me if I wanted to start training. I said yes, and ever since then, I’ve been fighting, for the last year or so.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means everything. This is what I want to do. I always wanted to be a professional athlete and in wrestling I could never be a real professional athlete and make a living at it, but in fighting I can, and I love it.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Attended East Stroudsburg University for two years.

What was your job before you started fighting? Student

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? April 07 placed 2nd at the NAGA Worlds in the Expert Division. Jr. year in high school was a National wrestling Champion and in his Sr. year was a NY State wrestling Champion. Won NAGA's Battle at the Beach, Grappler's Quest and the Copa Atlantica BJJ Championships from August through November 2007, all in the advanced division. 1-0 in amateur MMA.

Ranks in any martial arts styles: BJJ Purple Belt

Favorite grappling technique: Ground and pound

Favorite Striking technique: I just like to throw bombs