Ashlee Evans-Smith

When and why did you start training for fighting? I fell into MMA in an unusual way. After wrestling in high school and college I was confused on where to take my athletic career, and I started playing on a club rugby team. I was lucky enough to meet former UFC fighter & Strikeforce U.S. champion Eugene Jackson, who told me MMA would be the closest thing to wrestling, and soon after I was hooked.

What ranks and titles have you held? High school: I was a three-State Girls Wrestling Champion (California, Washington, Oregon) College: Four-time All-American on a Women's Collegiate Wrestling team. Ammy MMA: 140-pound Tuff N Uff Champion Pro: Earned the 145-pound title for CFA (Championship Fighting Alliance) after winning their female tournament.

Do you have any heroes? My high school wrestling coaches, my college wrestling coaches, my past & current MMA coaches & my grandfather. All these men have pushed me to be a better person & led by example.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? To be a UFC fighter means that I've made it to the top level of competition in my favorite sport. It means I'll be watched by millions of people all over the world. It means I get a chance to be a positive influence in other people's lives & inspire others to be better. To me, that means being a UFC fighter gives REAL meaning & purpose to my life.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Menlo College in Atherton, CA. I received my BA in Mass Communications / Media Studies in 2009.

What was your job before you started fighting? Bartending.
Ranks in any martial arts styles: Blue belt in Jiu-jitsu
Favorite grappling technique: Body locks and lifts
Favorite Striking technique: Elbows