Thoughts on opponent, Brock Larson? Brock is a tough guy and this will be a great win for me. Brock is a respectable professional and I look forward to a great action-packed fight. I will be ready for everything. I'll be in great shape and will push back hard. He'll be unpleasantly surprised.

What ranks and titles have you held?   I was the Sportfight welterweight Champion with several successful defenses before vacating the title to move on in my career.

Do you have any heroes?  I admire my father for who he is and how he raised me and I look up to my teammates like Dan Henderson and Matt Lindland.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC?   It's a chance to show that I'm a threat. People who know me believe in my ability, and people who don't will have a chance to see for themselves what I can do.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn?  I went to college for two years but didn't finish. I studied languages and linguistics. Never really used linguistics though.

What was your job before you started fighting?  I've taught English in Brazil for many years, but when I moved back to the states I started bartending.

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition?  Got 2nd at the South American Kickboxing Championships back in the day.

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? Sportfight Welterweight Champion.

Favorite grappling technique:  The triangle is easily my favorite technique. I get a lot of leverage with my long legs and my opponents have trouble freeing themselves.

Favorite Striking technique:  Misdirection... The technique doesn't matter nearly as much as how you sell it. I guess I like to fake a switch kick and throw a hook or uppercut, but there are so many...