TRAINING: With or without a fight, I train six days a week with the rest of the world champions on the Evolve Fight Team, working on all areas of my game.

When and why did you start training to become a fighter? I started training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) since I was 14 years old in Ubatuba, Sao Paulo, Brazil. I was influenced by my older brother at that time and so I wanted to pursue this journey to improve myself.

What ranks and titles have you held? I was a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) World Champion in 2004, a Brazilian National Champion in 2005 and a Martial Combat Fighting Championship World Champion.

Do you have any heroes? Yes, of course! My heroes are my mother and my grandmother. I love them with everything that I am and I thank them for their constant support for me and my dreams.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It’s been my dream to fight in the UFC since I started training and I’m very grateful for the opportunity given to me. The many Muay Thai, Boxing, Wrestling, No-Gi and MMA World Champions at Evolve Mixed Martial Arts in Singapore have played a huge part in helping me realize my dreams and now I’m ready to enter the Octagon of the UFC.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I earned a high school diploma back home in Brazil.

What was your job before you started fighting? I moved straight into training full-time once I graduated from school, but occasionally during the summer time I helped out with deliveries.

Specific accomplishments in pro competition: Mundials in Brazil where I was a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) World Champion in 2004, a Brazilian Nationals Champion in 2005 and a Martial Combat Fighting Championship World Champion. I also competed in ONE Fighting Championship in the Bantamweight division.

Ranks in any martial arts styles: I am currently a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Favorite grappling technique: Triangle choke

Favorite striking technique: High kick

•    Pro since 2006

•    Eight wins by submission, one by knockout

•    Has won nine of his last 11

•    Six first round finishes