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 126

SAN JOSE, CA - NOVEMBER 16: Cung Le greets fans after working out during the UFC 139 open workouts at the Heroes Martial Arts Gym on November 16, 2011 in San Jose, California. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Cung Le

TRAINING: Strength and Conditioning from 10 am to 12pm. Pads, Sanda/Sanshou and MMA from 7pm to 9pm

When and why did you start training for fighting? My Mother put me into a Taekwondo program when I was in elementary school to help me deal with the bullies that were picking on me because of my race.

What ranks and titles have you held? 2008 Strikeforce Middleweight MMA Title, 2005 Strikeforce Light Heavyweight San Shou Champion, 2004 ISKA Light Heavyweight K-1 Super Fight Champion, Las Vegas, NV, 2001 IKF Light Heavyweight World Champion San Jose, CA, 2000 ISKA North American Light Heavyweight Champion San Jose, CA, 2000 ISKA Light Heavyweight K-1 Super fight Champion Las Vegas, NV, 1999 Art of War Light Heavyweight Champion (China vs. USA) Honolulu, HI,1999 ISKA Light Heavyweight Sanshou Champion San Jose, CA, 1998 ISKA Light Cruzer weight Champion San Jose, CA,1998 Shidokan Team USA Champion Chicago, IL (Tournament Champion)

Do you have any heroes? God

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? Out of all of the fighting platforms that I have fought on, UFC is the top of the food chain, and I am finally here. It's like getting a Black Belt in MMA.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? West Valley Junior College for 2 years although I did not get a degree.

What was your job before you started fighting? Martial Arts Instructor and Travel Agent

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? Three time Bronze Medalist in the Wushu World Championships. I am the only American Wushu Kung Fu Athlete to have three World medals. I also was California Junior State Champion (158 lbs) and AAU Freestyle and Greco Roman National Champion (163 lbs). Also, California State High School Wrestling All-American.

Ranks in any martial arts styles: Black belt in Taekwondo , Blue belt in BJJ

Favorite Striking technique: Spinning kicks