Get a Physical
First thing you need to do is make sure you a cleared as physically able to compete. In order to get licensed for a particular state, you will need to meet certain guidelines. If a medical condition is found that would keep you from getting licensed, this gives you a chance to seek treatment in order to correct the condition before applying for a license.
Have a Definite Goal
Before you even get started, you should set a goal and make a basic plan on how to achieve that goal. Do you plan on making fighting your career or are you just looking to see train and see where that takes you? Consider whether or not you want to take some amateur fights first. A fighter with a successful amateur career will likely have an easier go at getting first professional fight with a legitimate promoter. Remember, a loss as an amateur can be easily overcome, but a loss as a professional will be on your record forever. Consider amateur fights against amateurs with different skill sets. Wrestlers, strikers, and Jiu-jitsu practitioners will test how rounded out your skill are and possibly expose any weaknesses.
Training
It would probably be wise to seek out a manager/trainer to oversee your preparations for fighting. A top-notch gym will likely have someone available to oversee your training. If you can't afford gym fees, some gyms will allow you to train for free if you represent the gym at competitions. If you can show a gym you are an asset and can represent them in a professional manner, they might consider it. Also, try to find a gym where you can train in all the basic skills (wrestling, striking, Jiu-jitsu).
If possible, you should be training 4-5 days a week with a bare minimum of 3 days a week and at least 2 hours a day. The quantity isn't as important as the quality of the workout. When training for a scheduled fight, you might consider two-a-days. You definitely want to make sure your cardio is top notch. You might have all the skill in the world but if you gas after the first couple of minutes, you'll be a sitting duck for a better-conditioned fighter.
Weight training can be beneficial but having too much muscle can cause you to gas early if your body can't provide the oxygen for all that mass. The strength you gain can be an invaluable asset in explosiveness in the cage but it must me balanced with the other parts of your training. This one of the areas where you trainer can give you good advise about how much you should work with weights.
Of course, you'll have to avoid over-training. Your body needs sufficient rest especially if doing intensive training. It might be a good idea to consider doing something low-intensity on off days like Tai Chi or Yoga. These can help with your flexibility and balance, which are both extremely important in MMA.
Make sure you have a proper diet. Cutting weight can be brutal especially for an inexperienced fighter. Compare your height and weight to other successful fighters. Are you able to move quickly or are you slow and bulky? If you need to gain weight, make sure you're gaining by adding muscle not fat.
Never Stop Learning
Increase your knowledge about the sport whenever possible. Many big name MMA fighters and accomplished martial artists give seminars on various aspects of MMA. The price of these seminars is usually reasonable so if you can afford it, you should attend as many of them as possible. The insight from someone who's "been there and done that" can be invaluable.
Listen to Your Manger/Trainer
When the time comes, your manager or trainer should be able to help you decide if you're ready mentally and physically to take your first pro fight. If you are totally prepared, hopefully you'll get the win you're looking for.
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