TRAINING: Jiu-Jitsu all day

When and why did you start training to become a fighter? I started training in 1996, and fighting in 2000. I had already started fighting to compete in MMA when I started Capoeira and then I went to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu because I thought it was the ideal combination for MMA. I started fighting because I think it is what I do best, and it's a cool and honest way to make a living.

What ranks and titles have you held? Jiu-Jitsu world champion, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt

Do you have any heroes? Jesus

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? A career accomplishment

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

What was your job before you started fighting? I worked in a fruit market. I was a loader of fruit stalls at Rio in CEASA loading trucks, worked in the middle of the night on weekends.

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? Capoeira master

Favorite grappling technique: Armbar

Favorite Striking technique: Head kick

•    Team Wanderlei member on TUF Brazil, was switched to Team Vitor late in the season

•    Pro since 2001

•    12 wins by submission, two by knockout

•    Owns wins over Jorge Patino, Gideon Ray, and Jake Ellenberger.

•    Has also faced Brad Blackburn, Jay Hieron, Antonio McKee, and Dennis Hallman

•    Was 6-4 in the IFL

•    Won 10 of his last 11 pre-TUF fights

•    Nickname means “lead foot”