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Jeff Monson

When and why did you start training for fighting? I wrestled in college and when I when went to grad school I helped coach but I really never lost that competitive spirit. I moved back to the northwest and got involved in some jiu-jitsu classes and then I met Matt Hume and he saw something in me so I went for it.

What ranks and titles have you held? XFC heavyweight champion, Cagewarriors heavyweight champion, Fightsport heavyweight champion, 2X Abu Dhabi world champion.

Do you have any heroes? No heroes but I like Randy Couture and Matt Lindland's fighting style and aggressive approach.

What is your favorite technique? Knees and elbows from the clinch.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means a lot because it is the biggest stage for MMA by far. I’m looking to put on a good performance. My only goal is to fight for the UFC heavyweight title.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I have a B.A. degree in psychology from the University of Illinois and a master's in psychology from the University of Minnesota, Duluth.

What was your job before you started fighting? Mental health professional and family and child/adolescent counselor in Olympia, Washington.