Thoughts on opponent, Thiago Alves? A fight is not only a question of strength, it’s a mix of skill and a variety of techniques and strategy. For me, I’m very glad to be part of such a historic event like UFC 100. But I also think of it as another fight – I’ll be as well prepared as I can be. I think he’s gonna try to hurt me really bad standing up, or it’s possible that he might try to surprise me and take me down also. So I need to be prepared for the possibility of both.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started martial arts when I was six, doing Kyokushin karate.  When I started training for MMA, I started wrestling with the national team and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with Nova Uniao. I now train in wrestling, BJJ, Muay Thai, and boxing.  When I first met Stephane Patry and his team I decided I wanted to become a champion in this sport.

What ranks and titles have you held? Two-time and current UFC Welterweight Champion, former TKO Canadian welterweight champion. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black belt under Bruno Fernandes.

Do you have any heroes? My MMA hero is Randy Couture.

What is your favorite technique? I love taking my opponent down. Once I have him on the ground I am dangerous with ground and pound and submissions.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? Fighting in the UFC has been a dream come true for me - even now I'm still amazed!  The UFC has allowed me to develop and mature as a fighter and I have so many opportunities that I never would have had otherwise because I’m a UFC fighter! 

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I was going to get a degree in administration but I put that on hold to concentrate on my fighting career.

What was your job before you started fighting? Before I started fighting I was a student, but now I’m fortunate enough to train full-time.