TRAINING: Morning - weights, 5pm – wrestling, 7pm - MMA

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started as a training partner of Fabricio Camoes, Cristiano Marcelo and Jorge Britto maybe ten years ago at Gracie Tijuca. I trained three months in Black House, Rio, before coming to Australia. I became a professional fighter after that.

What ranks and titles have you held? Current CFC light weight champion (cage fighting championship), GI and NO-GI Pan-Pacific champion 2011.

Do you have any heroes? No

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? I get to test myself against the best in the world.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? PE (physical Education)

What was your job before you started fighting? Physical trainer

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? Several BJJ and Grappling titles, one amateur boxing, two in Thai boxing

Ranks in any martial arts styles: BJJ black belt

•    Pro since 2007

•    Has fought all but one of his pro fights in Australia

•    Two wins by submission