Issue 098

March 2012

From flipping burgers and losing on his debut, to the UFC interim bantamweight title – check out the ‘Baron’s best bits

Best career moment?

“The best moment in my career so far was winning the UFC interim 135lb belt. Undoubtedly that was an achievement of a near-decade dream.”

Best thing about MMA?

“Democracy. If you’re a dedicated guy, you will make it.”

What’s best, a knockout or submission?

“Whatever. On the ground I feel more comfortable but I have also improved my boxing a lot. The important thing is to win.”

Best opponent?

“The next in line is always toughest, as we are evolving levels step by step and the next man you face is always the strongest. Of course, Dominick Cruz is the best of my division in my view, that’s why I want to fight him. But Michael McDonald is going to be a good opponent too, when we fight in London.”

Best first fight memory?

“Actually, I don’t have many because I lost in my debut but I learned to be more patient. I ended losing to myself.”

Best way TO get pumped?

“I listen to powerful music, like hip-hop, something that allows me to loosen my body and keep focused.”

Best job before becoming a fighter?

“I worked as the grill-man at a restaurant near my house. “

Best personality trait?

“I’m a relaxed guy who doesn’t like to hang out a lot and who stays more comfortable in front of old friends. I’m a practical joker.”

Best advice? 

“Dedicate yourself and never let your motivation go down. If you have a dream, go for it. Do your best and nothing will make you stop.”

Best inspiration?

“My family, my friends; my roots are the motivation for me to get on the top.”

Best cartoon character resemblance?

“Man, I don’t know. My nickname Barao (baron) comes off a soap opera character called ‘O Barao de Araruna’ but it was not for the resemblance. That was a nickname my grandmother gave me when I was born.”

Best dinner guests? Three people, past or present.

“They would be my father’s parents, and my son, and, unfortunately, my grandmother who has passed away.”

Best guilty pleasure?

“Fatty food, like lasagna and the stuff that generally gets me out of my diet.”

Best LIFE lesson?

“The best lesson life has taught me is to be dedicated, disciplined and to respect people. Respect is very important because only with it you’ll be respected.”