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RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - OCTOBER 10: Fabio Maldonado works out for fans and media during an open training session ahead of UFC 153 at Arcos da Lapa: Praca Cardeal Camara on October 10, 2012 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Fabio Maldonado

TRAINING: My typical day of training begins early in the morning with jiu-jitsu, in the afternoon I do Muay Thai and also boxing training, which is my specialty. I always intersperse my specific training with strength and conditioning sessions.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I began fighting in MMA in 2000 and professional boxing in 2002. I enjoy the competition. For this fight, I started the training in my city (Sorocaba), and after signing the contract I began training in Florianopolis.

What ranks and titles have you held? Brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Do you have any heroes? My father.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It’s the beginning of a dream.

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

What was your job before you started fighting? I started work in my father’s company when I was 12 years old.

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? I had 45 amateur boxing fights.

Favorite grappling technique: Armbar and guillotine

Favorite striking technique: Right hand