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MONTREAL, QC - NOVEMBER 17: Azamat Gashimov (white shorts) fights against Ivan Menjivar in their bantamweight bout during UFC 154 on November 17, 2012 at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Canada. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Azamat Gashimov

TRAINING: Morning 3 mile run followed by sparring / drills in the evening

When and why did you start training for fighting? At age 16 I won my first MMA fight and I liked it. It’s fun.

What ranks and titles have you held? International Master of Sambo

Do you have any heroes? Chuck Norris

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means I am among the best in the world

Did you go to college, and if so, what degree did you earn? 2009 - graduated from State Industrial College

What was your job before you started fighting? No prior job, just pro athlete

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? Combat Sambo champion and BJJ champion

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? Ukrainian Cup MMA champion

Favorite grappling technique: Double leg takedown

Favorite Striking technique: Jab, cross, and roundhouse