Evan Elder

When and why did you start training for fighting? It all started with watching the UFC fights with my dad when I was little. It was always our dream for me to be a champion in the UFC. Him being a slightly knowledgeable MMA fan, he realized how dominant wrestling was, so he wanted me to wrestle before I started MMA. My school didn’t offer wrestling until 7th grade. I wrestled my 7th and 8th grade year. I did well, so he found me a local MMA gym and I never turned back. It has been my whole life ever since I started. 

What ranks and titles have you held? I was about to fight for the Fighting Alliance Championship lightweight title until I got the call to take this fight short notice this weekend. 

Do you have any heroes? I have a TON of people I look up to and would consider role models/heroes. I’ve always looked up to my dad and my grandpa for their work ethic and willingness to get things done regardless of how they feel. In the sport, my favorite fighter has always been GSP and even more so as I get older. I loved him at first because of the amazing fighter he is, but I am more of a fan now that I know how intelligent he was and still is in his approach to not just training, but life, in general. I have lots of other role models/heroes in all areas of life. I would say the underlying theme of them all that makes me respect and look up to them is their mindset. I respect and admire anyone who is willing to work hard for what they want, is always trying to improve, take care of their loved ones, and being kind to people as they do all these things. 

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means the world to me. This has been my dream since I was six years old. It’s pretty surreal that it is finally happening, but I believe I’m ready. Now I get to prove to everyone else that I belong here. 

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I went to college for about 12 minutes and decided to drop out to pursue training full time. I did one semester at the local community college fresh out of high school. I was going to be a special education teacher, but realized I wanted to focus on training and be able to do it full time even if it meant sacrificing everything else. 

What was your job before you started fighting? I’ve been training since I was about 14, so I didn’t have a real job. I have worked quite a few different jobs through the years to make ends meet and pay for the lifestyle required for me to pursue fighting wholeheartedly. Jobs such as fast food, cutting grass, Uber and, of course, coaching classes and teaching private lessons. 

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? Nothing huge, just a few amateur titles along with my only loss coming from a guy who made it to the UFC (Luis Pena). 

Favorite grappling technique: Pressure

Favorite Striking technique: Jab - it sets up everything else for you to use.