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Michael McDonald & Edwin Figueroa

Edwin Figueroa

TRAINING: A typical day of training would be strength and conditioning training at West Plano Crossfit in the morning, then I work on my striking with head coach Joe Garcia at Mohler's MMA. There I will also train on my jiu-jitsu and transitions with coaches Allen Mohler and Todd Black.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started in boxing when I was six but I didn't start train seriously for fighting until I was 14. My father boxed back in El Salvador and he got me started by training me at home. I’m basically just following my father's footsteps and making his dream - one of his children becoming a professional athlete - come true.

What ranks and titles have you held? Amateur grappling title, amateur kickboxing title, Dallas Golden Gloves Champion, and King of Kombat Bantamweight champion.

Do you have any heroes? My heroes are my mother, father, and my big brother.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? To fight in the UFC is my dream come true. I've been training and fighting all my life and all my life people have been telling me how much potential I have and how special I am. I know I belong here and now I finally get to show why.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I didn't go to college much.

What was your job before you started fighting? I worked at the front desk at Gold's Gym doing customer service and making smoothies.

Favorite grappling technique: Kneebar

Favorite Striking technique: Left hook