TRAINING: Practice to get familiar with the cage, overall strengthening of sparring and the southpaw stance.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started Karate-based MMA in ZENDOKAI, and JUDO at high school when I was at 16 years old to become a pro wrestler.

What ranks and titles have you held? DEEP Rookie of the Year, Pancrase Rookie of the Year, Currently ranked #1 in Pancrase

Do you have any heroes? Any villain in special effects movies and cartoon characters playing the villain's role.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It’s an honor to be in the UFC, the largest and major league in MMA in the world. It’s the summit of my career.

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

What was your job before you started fighting? I held many part-time jobs when I was looking to become a professional fighter.

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? Won ZENDOKAI Real Fighting Championship in 2005 and 2006

Ranks in any martial arts styles: Black Belt in JUDO & ZENDOKAI KARATE, Brown Belt in Jiu-Jitsu

Favorite grappling technique: Armbar

Favorite Striking technique: Hook

•    Pro since 2005

•    Five wins by submission, one by knockout

•    Has won 12 of his last 15