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STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN - APRIL 11: Alessio Sakara works out for the media during the UFC open workouts at Pancrase Gym on April 11, 2012 in Stockholm, Sweden. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Alessio Sakara

TRAINING: A normal day consists of sparring, jiu-jitsu, ground & pound, cardio and strength and conditioning.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I was 11 years old when I started to train boxing. At 18 I started to train BJJ and MMA.

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? 29-3 in amateur boxing.

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? 8-1 pro boxing record, fought for IBF youth cruiserweight boxing title. Black belt in BJJ under Marcus “Conan” Silveira

Do you have any heroes? Minotauro and Minotoro Nogueira.

What is your favorite technique? Leg Kicks

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? A dream come true! I get to test my power at a higher level.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Just basic studies.

What was your job before you started fighting? I had all kinds of jobs but I was born a fighter and that is what I’ve always done.