TRAINING: Morning - MMA, Afternoon - BJJ/Muay Thai, Evening - Conditioning

Thoughts on opponent, Raphael Assuncao? He's aggressive and his BJJ skills are good.  I can't wait to get into the cage and put my abilities to the test.

When and why did you start training for fighting? At age 13 when I saw Royce Gracie fighting in the UFC.

What ranks and titles have you held? RFA Bantamweight Champion, 2x Brazilian National No-Gi Champion, 6x State BJJ Champion, Black Belt BJJ

Do you have any heroes? I don't have any heroes, but I look up to certain individuals in my personal and professional life for inspiration.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It's a dream come true.  Since the age of 13 all I wanted to become was a professional fighter.  When I accomplished that I could not wait to be a part of the UFC, and in 2010 I came to the U.S. to conquer that dream.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Yes. Bachelor's in physical education

What was your job before you started fighting? BJJ and Muay Thai Instructor

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? Winning and defending the RFA title.

Ranks in any martial arts styles: Black Belt BJJ

Favorite grappling technique: Guillotine choke

Favorite striking technique: Elbows and knees

•    Pro since 2009

•    Five wins by submission, two by KO

•    Three first round finishes

•    Holds five round decision win over UFC / WEC vet Jeff Curran from August 2013