Training: Daily work in all aspects of MMA.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I've been training BJJ all my life. I started training specifically for MMA about five years ago.

What ranks and titles have you held? I'm a 2nd degree black belt in BJJ. 4-time Pan-American champion

Do you have any heroes? I have my father (Rolls Gracie) for what he represents in BJJ history and for the role model he was as a person.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? The UFC is the ultimate proving ground. And that's where I want to be: Among the best so I can be the best.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I didn't finish college. I graduated in the Jiu-jitsu academy.

What was your job before you started fighting? I've been teaching jiu-jitsu for a long time - that's how I make a living.

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? Jiu-Jitsu: No-Gi Pan-American Champion ’08, 3 time Pan-American Champion ‘06/’00/’96, 1st Place Grapplers Quest Copa Atlantica ’05, Brazilian Teams Champion ’00, 3rd Place World Championships ’99, 2 time Brazilian National Champion ‘99/’96, 2nd Place World Championships ’98, 3 time Rio de Janeiro State Champion ‘93/’91/’89. Submission Wrestling: 2nd Place World ADCC 99 Kg + Division ’07. Judo: Gold Medal Sunshine States Games ’98, Gold Medal Miami Dade Open ’98.

Favorite grappling technique: All of them

Favorite Striking technique: Jab