Close Thumbnails

Getty Images reserves the right to pursue unauthorized users of this image or clip. If you violate our intellectual property you may be liable for: actual damages, loss of income, and profits you derive from the use of this image or clip, and, where appropriate, the costs of collection and/or statutory damages up to $150,000 (USD).

photo 1 of 47

BELO HORIZONTE, BRAZIL - JUNE 22: Mauricio "Shogun" Rua interacts with fans during a Q&A session before the UFC 147 weigh in at EstÃ¡dio Jornalista Felipe Drummond on June 22, 2012 in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Mauricio Rua

TRAINING: There is not a day like the other, but usually I would do at least two training sessions per day, and sometimes three, including strength and conditioning, Muay Thai, Boxing, Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling and MMA.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started to train when I was 16 years old (1997), following in the steps of my older brother Murilo Ninja. For sure, I started to train because of him, and I went to the Chute Boxe Academy to watch him train.

What ranks and titles have you held? UFC Light Heavyweight Champion. PRIDE GRAND PRIX title in 2005 - It was a very difficult tournament and I beat some top guys to reach the title like Quinton Jackson, Rogerio Minotoro Nogueira and Ricardo Arona.

Do you have any heroes? My older brother Murilo Ninja is my hero. I'm a fighter today because of him; he was the guy that motivated me to get into the sport, and with my masters Rudimar Fedrigo and Rafael Cordeiro, they helped me to become a professional fighter.

What is your favorite technique? My background is Muay Thai but I like Jiu Jitsu too.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It is a dream coming true. I had the opportunity to fight in PRIDE two times in the USA, and the American fans are incredible. The noise and excitement of the crowd is fantastic, and I'm sure that I have the opportunity of my life in the hands. UFC is the number one event around the world and I'm working hard for the belt, which is my main goal.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Yes, I went to college. Here in Brazil the names are a little different. I finished the second degree.

What was your job before you started fighting? I worked as a model here in Brazil, making some pictures, books and fashion parades for some brands. I enjoyed the experience, but to be honest I'm a fighter since I was 16.