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SAITAMA, JAPAN - SEPTEMBER 25: Mizuto Hirota during the UFC weigh-in at the Saitama Super Arena on September 25, 2015 in Saitama, Japan. (Photo by Mitch Viquez/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Mizuto Hirota

Thoughts on opponent, Charles Rosa? His standup fighting is organized mainly around his kicks, so I think his fighting style is atypical. Also, I acknowledge his strength and toughness in terms of ground fighting because of his black belt in jiu-jitsu.

TRAINING: Striking, grappling, MMA

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training after I watched PRIDE FC fights and was inspired by them.

What ranks and titles have you held? Lightweight champion of DEEP, Sengoku (SRC), CAGE FORCE

Do you have any heroes? Chiyonofuji (Japanese Yokozuna, Sumo Wrestler)

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? By setting my goal at the highest, it is natural for me to fight in the UFC.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? No

What was your job before you started fighting? Construction worker

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? 2004 Shooto All Japan Amateur Championship Welterweight division winner

Ranks in any martial arts styles: All Japan Sumo and boxing amateur championship

Favorite grappling technique: Heel hook

Favorite Striking technique: Right straight, left hook