TRAINING: I’ve got a new camp in where I’m training in South Florida with some good fighters and training partners - Edson Barboza, Eduardo Guedes, Luiz Cane, Marlon Moraes, Raphael Chaves and the rest of the guys.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training in 2000, influenced by my cousin Gustavo Oliveira and legend Royce Gracie

What ranks and titles have you held? BJJ black belt/ Pan American champion/ Shotokan 2004 champion

Do you have any heroes? God

What is your favorite technique? Too many to list

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? This means a lot to me; it’s a longtime dream come true. I want to showcase my always improving skills, and build and establish my name in the organization.

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

What was your job before you started fighting? BJJ instructor

•    Eight wins by submission, two by knockout

•    Pro since 2004

•    Has defeated Jorge Masvidal and Joe Lauzon in pre-UFC / WEC bouts

•    Brother of UFC vet Junior Assuncao – the Assuncaos join the Nogueira, Miller, Hughes, Serra, Lauzon, Diaz, and Shamrock families as the only brother tandems to fight in the UFC. Jeremy Horn and his half-brother Matt Andersen are also UFC vets.