UFC 196's Darren Elkins went to Team Alpha Male because he 'needed change'

Darren Elkins is tied for the second most featherweight victories in UFC history. In his mind, though, that’s still not good enough.

Elkins (19-4 MMA, 9-3 UFC) doesn’t just want to be the leader in wins, but he also wants to be the No. 1 fighter in the weight class. He looks to take another step in that journey tonight at UFC 196 against Chas Skelly (15-1 MMA, 4-1 UFC).

If Elkins wants to become the best, it starts with preparation. That’s why he moved from his longtime training home in his native Indiana and traveled west to Team Alpha Male in Sacramento, where he’s able to get ready for his fights alongside the likes of Urijah Faber, Chad Mendes, Joseph Benavidez and others.

Team Alpha Male has a history of breeding elite fighters in the UFC’s lighter weight classes. Elkins said that’s where he needed to be to take his career to the next level.

“I needed change,” Elkins told MMAjunkie Radio. “I was at the point where I needed to evolve more, and I’ve always had a good relationship with the Team Alpha Male guys. They have the best lighter weights in the world, so it worked out perfect. Our personalities and everything worked out, so I love it out here.”

UFC 196 takes place at Las Vegas’ MGM Grand Garden Arena. The Elkins vs. Skelly featherweight bout opens the FOX Sports 1-televised preliminary card following early prelims on UFC Fight Pass. The main card airs on pay-per-view.

Elkins’ move to Team Alpha Male has come in the midst of some controversy in the camp. Former UFC bantamweight champ T.J. Dillashaw split from the team last year after a fallout with team founder Faber, and the team has experienced a series of changes among the coaching ranks.

UFC veteran Justin Buchholz was appointed the official head coach for Team Alpha Male earlier this year, though, and Elkins said he’s pleased with the choice. He also said he believes the coaching staff will help lead him to victory at UFC 196.

“He’s great,” Elkins said of Buchholz. “He brings out some good energy and studies the game. He’s constantly trying to push us, and I think he’s a great head coach.”

For more on UFC 196, check out the UFC Rumors section of the site.

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