TRAINING: Morning sessions at ATT, then an evening session that same day. 2 a days Monday through Friday. Saturday morning session as well.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training to fight MMA professionally in 2000 or so, when I graduated high school. I was focused and already knew that I would end up fighting professionally.

What ranks and titles have you held? Black Belt in BJJ. Black Belt in Luta Livre. FFC Welterweight champion.PFC Lightweight Champion. Capital Fight Lightweight champion.

Do you have any heroes? My heroes are my parents. They always tried to raise myself and my sister to the best of their abilities. In MMA it would be Yves Edwards; I try to emulate him.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? Fighting in the UFC is my professional dream come true.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I did some college, but wasn´t able to juggle that with fighting. I plan to go back to school one day to finish my degree in Kinesiology.

What was your job before you started fighting? I did random odd-jobs, everything from construction, to bouncing to security to fast food.

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? I was very successful in submission wrestling and was the 2000 Brazilian Luta Livre champion at 75 kilos.

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? I have numerous conquests as a Pro MMA fighter. I have fought for almost every major promotion there is.

Favorite grappling technique: Chokes

Favorite Striking technique: Knees

•    Pro since 2002

•    WEC vet (0-2) – fought Carlos Condit in a rematch for the WEC welterweight title in 2008 but was submitted.

•    Owns wins over Condit (in 2004), Spencer Fisher, Melvin Guillard, Pat Healy, Keith Wisniewski, and Cameron Dollar

•    Has also faced Drew Fickett, Reza Madadi, Rich Crunkilton, Antonio McKee, and Brock Larson

•    16 wins by submission, two by KO