Works as a part-time firefighter paramedic in Oakwood and Valley View, Ohio. He considers it possible that he'll become a full-time firefighter in the future.
Trained in MMA and boxing during college. Became the Cleveland Golden Gloves boxing champion. In 2011 he became a professional MMA fighter under the UFC. Is now the reigning heavyweight champion since 2016 after defeating Fabricio Werdum.
Born and raised in Euclid, Ohio to Croatian parents.