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Oliveira vs. Elkins

Darren Elkins

TRAINING: My first workout of the day is a strength and conditioning workout. I do some weights, kettle bells, box jumps, tire flips, and some sprints. My second workout is a lot of technique, drilling, pad work, and bag work. My last workout of the day is live grappling, sparring, and drilling.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training MMA because I grew up watching the old UFC's and I saw how good the wrestlers were doing and wanted to do it ever since. I have been training for almost six years now.

What ranks and titles have you held? I am a C3 lightweight champion

Do you have any heroes? None

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means a lot for me to be in the UFC because it’s the Super Bowl of MMA. I’ve always dreamed about some day fighting in the UFC.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I went to college for two years at University of Wisconsin Parkside and didn’t earn a degree.

What was your job before you started fighting? I am a Local 597 pipefitter

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? I was an Indiana state high school wrestling champion. I finished my high school career with 191-9 record. I was a 4 time freestyle wrestling champion and 2 time greco state champion.

Favorite grappling technique: guillotine and a rear naked choke.

Favorite Striking technique: straight right and Muay Thai knees