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Training: I balance my days with physical training, striking and grappling

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training for MMA when I was 18 years old. I started it because I was admiring Mr. Rumina Sato.

What ranks and titles have you held? I am the 4th Shooto welterweight champion.

Do you have any heroes? I cannot call up any hero in my mind.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? Fighting in the UFC means "Keep challenging," because it is the toughest place to fight.

What was your job before you started fighting? I was a student of a special school.
Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? I finished second in the All Japan amateur Shooto tournament in 1996.

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? I used to fight in Shooto and I became the 4th welterweight champion. Then I fought in the UFC for the lightweight title twice at UFC 30 and UFC 41. Also I was the finalist of HERO'S middleweight tournament in 2006 and 2007.

Favorite grappling technique: My favorite grappling technique is side triangle and Kimura.

Favorite Striking technique: My favorite striking technique is roundhouse kick.

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