Get Newsletter

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).

Diego Saraiva

TRAINING: Well, this fight is the last one in my contract and I need to win. I’m training hard hours focusing on this fight. I've been doing cardio training, Muay Thai and BJJ.

Thoughts on opponent, Jeremy Stephens? I don't know much about him. I heard he is very aggressive and has pretty good hands. I saw his fight with Din (Thomas) and I think that he is a good fight for me. I’m training really hard and I am 100%.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started Jiu-Jitsu when I was 12 years old, and my first amateur MMA fight was when I was 17 years old. I was only a jiu-jitsu player at the time and I got mad because I went to the World Jiu-Jitsu Championships and the ref robbed me in my fight. Two days later there was a fight in my hometown and I asked my coach if I could fight. I fought this really tough guy and I took a beating for two eight minute rounds, and lost by decision.

What ranks and titles have you held? Black Belt in BJJ, three NAGA belts, three Gold medals in Pan American Games, two National titles in Brazil.

Do you have any heroes? Chuck Liddell, BJ Penn.

What is your favorite technique? Triangle

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means a lot - it’s my life, my future, my opportunity.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Yes, but I didn’t finish.

What was your job before you started fighting? I was a student.