TRAINING: I'm training three times a day for this fight. In the morning, I train MMA at Evolução Thai Team with André Dida. In the afternoon, Muai Thai and conditioning. And in the evening I train Jiu-Jitsu with Sergio Moraes.

When and why did you start training to become a fighter? I started training at the age of 23. I started with kickboxing, but there were far too many rules, so I chose MMA instead.

What ranks and titles have you held? 3 times Brasilia kickboxing champion, Jungle Fight lightweight champion

Do you have any heroes? Ataide Júnior , Minotauro Nogueira, Wanderlei Silva and Anderson Silva

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? For me, the UFC is the beginning of a dream, in which the ending will be me with the belt around my waist.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? No

What was your job before you started fighting? I’ve worked as a guard, pizzaiolo (pizza maker) and as a field worker

Favorite grappling technique: Arm triangle

• Team Wanderlei member on TUF Brazil

• Pro since 2006

• Five wins by KO, five by submission

• Has won nine of his last 12

• Lone pre-UFC loss came via submission to UFC vet Iuri Alcantara in September of 2010

• Nickname means Brazilian redwood