Richard's natural talent and passion for martial arts became apparent to his coaches and fellow students, and he began helping the amateur MMA team prepare for fights by sparring and training with them. In the process, Richard met Kru Walter Michalowski, owner of Sityodtong Los Angeles, and was fortunate enough to be invited to the Muay Thai training camp for occasional sparring and pad work.

Kru Walter began cornering Richard’s amateur MMA fights. Unfortunately, Bond Squad MMA closed its doors, and Richard officially made the move to Sityodtong LA, where Kru Walter became his head coach.

After winning four championship belts as an amateur MMA fighter with a 9-1 record, Richard decided to make the transition to become a professional mixed martial arts fighter. His decision was validated after a first round knockout in his pro debut. Richard would go on to win 6 more fights in a row before suffering his first loss.

Details of his MMA career can be found on Richard's Sherdog Profile.