When and why did you start training for fighting? I have been training jiu-jitsu for over ten years. My first fight was in 2001 in Hook n Shoot. Fighting is my life. I fight to live.

What ranks and titles have you held?   Black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, former WEC lightweight champion, HooknShoot world champion, World Extreme Fighting world champion, NAGA grappling champion, numerous jiu-jitsu championships including Pan-American Games, Florida Championships, and
Brazilian Nationals.

Do you have any heroes? Myself.  In 2005, I lost three times in a row and a lot of people said Hermes Franca is dead, he’s over, and he’s not gonna fight anymore.  So what I had to do was first prove to myself that Hermes Franca’s back.  And every time I looked in the mirror, I said, ‘Hermes, you’re the best. Prove to everybody how good you are.’  And I came back.

What is your favorite technique?   Triangle, arm bar, guillotine, sweeps.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It’s amazing.  I was waiting for the call to come back, I kept fighting and winning, and I said, ‘one day they’re gonna call me.’  And they called, and I’m not gonna lose my opportunity again.  I want to be the lightweight champion and I’m gonna work hard every day.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? None

What was your job before you started fighting? Teaching jiu-jitsu