TRAINING: MMA training at KRAZY BEE during weekdays, and KARATE training on the weekend in my hometown.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started Karate when I was five years old because my father forced me to do it.

What ranks and titles have you held? Shooto 132-pound World Champion, 2010 Rookie of the Year, 2010 MVP

Do you have any heroes? No question about it, my hero is Norifumi "KID" Yamamoto!

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It’s a great chance to establish my MMA career.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? No, I did not. I joined the KRAZY BEE team right after I graduated high school because I wanted to become a professional MMA fighter under KID even though I had an offer from the college.

What was your job before you started fighting? High School student

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? Regional Karate Champion in Japan

Favorite grappling technique: Rear naked choke

Favorite striking technique: Straight

•    Pro since 2010

•    Four first round finishes

•    Eight wins by KO, one by submission

•    On seven fight winning streak

•    Holds 2012 win over UFC vet Ian Loveland