Close Thumbnails

Getty Images reserves the right to pursue unauthorized users of this image or clip. If you violate our intellectual property you may be liable for: actual damages, loss of income, and profits you derive from the use of this image or clip, and, where appropriate, the costs of collection and/or statutory damages up to $150,000 (USD).

photo 1 of 30

UFC President Dana White separating Thiago Alves and Papy Abedi

Papy Abedi

TRAINING: This training camp has been my toughest so far. I have been with Alexander Gustafsson and Andreas Michael in Vegas and trained with great fighters as there is a ton of sparring partners here!

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started to train MMA 2006 after my good friend Tchavdar Pavlov took me to Hilti. Over there I met my longtime manager Manos Terzitane and he has helped me to get here under his guidance together with all my sparring partners and trainers… The next step is to get the UFC belt!

What ranks and titles have you held? Judo black belt and the Fight Fiesta de Luxe champion

Do you have any heroes? My children are my heroes!

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means that I am one step closer my dream, which is to be the UFC champion!

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Electrician school

What was your job before you started fighting? Electrician

Favorite grappling technique: flying triangle

Favorite Striking technique: uppercut