TRAINING:Training consists of three practices daily, with two half /days off training per week. Tue /Thurs morning rest with afternoon and night training that same day. 

 

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training in 2000, influenced by my cousin Gustavo Oliveira and legend Royce Gracie

What ranks and titles have you held? BJJ black belt/ Pan American champion/ Shotokan 2004 champion

Do you have any heroes? God

What is your favorite technique? Too many to list

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means a lot to be part of such a high level (the biggest in the world) fighting organization. It’s the biggest in the world and it keeps me focused and motivated.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? No

What was your job before you started fighting? BJJ instructor

• Ten wins by submission (6 armbar, RNC, 2 guillotine, 1 triangle), three by knockout

• Pro since 2004

• Has defeated Jorge Masvidal and Joe Lauzon in pre-UFC / WEC bouts

• Brother of UFC vet Junior Assuncao – the Assuncaos join the Nogueira, Miller, Hughes, Serra, Alcantara, Lauzon, Diaz, Pettis, Ellenberger, Roberts, Rosholt, Montano and Shamrock families as the only brother tandems to fight in the UFC. Jeremy Horn and his half-brother Matt Andersen are also UFC vets.

• Has won 10 of his last 12

• Ten fights at bantamweight (9-1)