What would you learn from Michael Chandler?
I feel like when it comes to Michael Chandler, me and him have very similar skill sets. He’s the best switch stance fighter in the UFC, in my opinion. I think he brings a crazy pace on everybody, and his wrestling ability is insane. I could learn a ton from him; he’s an athlete, he’s dedicated to the game, he does all the right things. I feel like I would have a great camp under him and I would be able to learn a lot of things: preparation, mindset, and obviously a lot of technical stuff, as well.
What would you learn from Conor McGregor?
Well, I’m predominately a southpaw, so learning from the best southpaw to ever hit the UFC wouldn’t necessarily be a bad thing. Simple as that.
Who inspired you to start MMA? Any former or current fighters that helped develop your passion?
There are so many I can’t really list them all off, but off the top of my head I’d have to say people like Henry Cejudo. He’s been the pinnacle in wrestling and now he’s the pinnacle in MMA. He is a huge example, a huge role model, huge inspiration. You got guys like DC, guys like Chandler, guys like McGregor.
What do you think is going to be your toughest challenge in making it to the end?
My biggest challenge is the other people in this house. This season is unlike any other, I’ve already seen these guys walking around, the competition is stiff, but that’s what I’m here for. I’ve always been one to roll the dice and I’m ready to go. It’s going to bring out the best in me and hopefully it brings out the best in everybody else, too, because I’m ready to beat the best. I’m just ready to compete, I’m made for this.
Why are you going to be the winner of The Ultimate Fighter season 31?
I’m going to win it because I’m tenacious. I’m absolutely ready to give anything I have to win this whole thing. I look at all these guys, with all due respect, they’re all good people, they’re all good dudes, but I’m ready to run through every single one because I’m here to win, and that’s it. That’s all there is to it. I’m a competitor at heart and there is nothing I won’t do to get my hand raised. I’m made for this, I’m built for this, I’ve seen this from day one, so this is what I’m here for. I’m going to take this all the way to the top. Especially after last weekend. Now you got two TUF alumni who became Mexico’s champions. I want to be the third.
