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 39

LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 7: (R-L) Gleison Tibau punches Khabib Nurmagomedov during their lightweight bout at UFC 148 inside MGM Grand Garden Arena on July 7, 2012 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Donald Miralle/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Khabib Nurmagomedov; Gleison Tibau

Gleison Tibau

TRAINING: I will be very well prepared. I’m training something every day, but focusing more on my standup. I hope to score the knockout in this fight!

When and why did you start training for fighting? 14 years ago. I started fighting when I was 15 in Brazil.

What ranks and titles have you held? In jiu-jitsu I was a State Champ in Rio and a State Champ in Wrestling. I have won in some of the big shows MMA here in Brazil like MECA. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black belt

Do you have any heroes? My father, he guided me and always supported me.

What is your favorite technique? Rear naked choke

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? A very big dream of mine is to fight in the United States for the UFC.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I go to the college of ATT, where I am learning all I can. (Laughs) No college, I completed high school back in Brazil.

What was your job before you started fighting? I started training when I was 13 and was fighting by the time I was 15. This is the only job I know.