When and why did you start training for fighting? I started practicing Jiu-Jitsu when I was 12 because my master Nonato Machado brought me in to train for free, to keep me away from the troubles of the street. I was good, so I went to Rio de Janeiro with Andre Pederneiras to compete and perfect my skills.

What ranks and titles have you held? Black belt in Jiu-Jitsu, #1 challenger for Shooto Bantamweight title, Jiu-Jitsu World Champion 2X, Brazilian champion 6X. Amazon champion 10X

Do you have any heroes? My mother, Nonato Machado, my master in Manaus, because they provide me inspiration and sacrificed a lot for me to move up in life.

What is your favorite technique? Rear naked choke

What does it mean for you to fight in the WEC? This is my dream since when I was a kid, as it was always my dream to fight in the UFC, in the cage. As the WEC is the UFC of my weight group, this is a dream come true. The best are fighting there, and I want to fight the best.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I never went to college because I didn't have the conditions to; I had to fight to help support my family from an early age, to help my sick mother.

What was your job before you started fighting? I did all kinds of work; I painted, carried wood and construction material, everything.