Which combat sport from the many that make up MMA would you consider your favourite and why?
My favourite would be wrestling.
Not because I’m the best at it, but because I think, if done right, it can dominate most fights. High level judo is my favourite to watch in MMA.
I love watching someone like Hector Lombard hit foot sweeps and throws during fights.
What’s behind the nickname?
My nickname “Highlight” was given to me in high-school football. I played running back and every play I was involved in tended to be exciting.
What led you to begin a career in MMA?
I had a strong desire to compete in something that pushed me to my limits with an element of danger.
Describe yourself as a person.
I think I’m a very positive, laid back, goal-orientated and confident man.
Describe yourself as a fighter.
I’m a cerebral fighter, but I’ve got an aggressive streak and know when to push the pace.
What is your biggest weapon?
I’m a thinking fighter with great cardio and toughness.
Who was your toughest opponent and why?
All of my opponents since I’ve been in the UFC have been tough as nails.
They’re in the UFC for that very reason.
How do you rate your chances of victory in Abu Dhabi?
Hundred per cent going to win [against Chris Camozzi].
What’s your perfect day off?
Lots of laughter, sleep and good food.
Where do you see your career in three years’ time?
In the top 10 of the middleweight division doing fight commentary on the side.
What do you say to people who call UFC “barbaric”?
Those people need to be educated more thoroughly on the sport.
sports@thenational.ae
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Confirmed%20bouts%20(more%20to%20be%20added)
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Blackpink World Tour [Born Pink] In Cinemas
Starring: Rose, Jisoo, Jennie, Lisa
Directors: Min Geun, Oh Yoon-Dong
Rating: 3/5
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
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Cultural fiesta
What: The Al Burda Festival
When: November 14 (from 10am)
Where: Warehouse421, Abu Dhabi
The Al Burda Festival is a celebration of Islamic art and culture, featuring talks, performances and exhibitions. Organised by the Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development, this one-day event opens with a session on the future of Islamic art. With this in mind, it is followed by a number of workshops and “masterclass” sessions in everything from calligraphy and typography to geometry and the origins of Islamic design. There will also be discussions on subjects including ‘Who is the Audience for Islamic Art?’ and ‘New Markets for Islamic Design.’ A live performance from Kuwaiti guitarist Yousif Yaseen should be one of the highlights of the day.
The Matrix Resurrections
Director: Lana Wachowski
Stars: Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Jessica Henwick
Rating:****
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TRAP
Starring: Josh Hartnett, Saleka Shyamalan, Ariel Donaghue
Director: M Night Shyamalan
Rating: 3/5
BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE
Starring: Winona Ryder, Michael Keaton, Jenny Ortega
Director: Tim Burton
Rating: 3/5
BORDERLANDS
Starring: Cate Blanchett, Kevin Hart, Jamie Lee Curtis
Director: Eli Roth
Rating: 0/5
World Sevens Series standing after Dubai
1. South Africa
2. New Zealand
3. England
4. Fiji
5. Australia
6. Samoa
7. Kenya
8. Scotland
9. France
10. Spain
11. Argentina
12. Canada
13. Wales
14. Uganda
15. United States
16. Russia
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Monster
Directed by: Anthony Mandler
Starring: Kelvin Harrison Jr., John David Washington
3/5