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Marcus Aurelio

When and why did you start training for fighting? Five years ago I started after joining American Top Team. It was the next step after I got done competing with the gi in jiu-jitsu tournaments. It was a natural for me

Accomplishments in amateur competition? 2x Brazilian Champ in BJJ, 2x Pan-American Champ in BJJ.

Accomplishments in pro competition? ZST Grand Prix champion, HOOKnSHOOT Champ, Ring of Fury Champ, MMAUSA Champ

Ranks in any martial arts styles: Third degree BJJ Black Belt

Favorite grappling technique: Whatever finishes the fight for me.

Favorite Striking technique: High Kick

Do you have any heroes? My father

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? Like most fighters, this is a dream come true. Especially after seeing my good friends Din Thomas, Wilson Gouveia, and Pitbull (Thiago Alves) competing there.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I started University but did not get a chance to finish my studies. I am a full time fighter now so I do not have the time. Maybe in the future I will go back to complete my studies.

What was your job before you started fighting? Teaching jiu-jitsu. I had a big academy in my city of Fortaleza. I have been teaching 12 years so that is what I primarily did.