When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training around the age of 15 for self-defense. My father thought it would be a good way for me to build confidence and, at the same time, protect myself from bullies at school. As I got better, I started to have a hunger for competition. And once I started competing, I fell in love with the idea of becoming a professional.
What ranks and titles have you held? I won the Quebec wrestling provincials in 2012, I have won some local BJJ tournaments, and have won amateur fights in MMA, boxing and Muay Thai.
Do you have any heroes? I look up to two people mainly: my brother Firas Zahabi and
What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It's a great opportunity to show my skills on the world stage.
Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I went to McGill University and was majoring in accounting, but after completing my second year I decided to become a fighter full-time and I left school behind.
What was your job before you started fighting? I’ve had a few jobs, but the last one and current one is personal trainer.
Ranks in any martial arts styles: Black belt in BJJ
Favorite grappling technique: RNC
Favorite Striking technique: Jab
When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training around the age of 15 for self-defense. My father thought it would be a good way for me to build confidence and, at the same time, protect myself from bullies at school. As I got better, I started to have a hunger for competition. And once I started competing, I fell in love with the idea of becoming a professional.
What ranks and titles have you held? I won the Quebec wrestling provincials in 2012, I have won some local BJJ tournaments, and have won amateur fights in MMA, boxing and Muay Thai.
Do you have any heroes? I look up to two people mainly: my brother Firas Zahabi and Georges St-Pierre.
What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It's a great opportunity to show my skills on the world stage.
Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I went to McGill University and was majoring in accounting, but after completing my second year I decided to become a fighter full-time and I left school behind.
What was your job before you started fighting? I’ve had a few jobs, but the last one and current one is personal trainer
When and why did you start training for fighting? At age 13 when I saw Royce Gracie fighting in the UFC.
What ranks and titles have you held? RFA Bantamweight Champion, 2x Brazilian National No-Gi Champion, 6x State BJJ Champion, Black Belt BJJ
Do you have any heroes? I don't have any heroes, but I look up to certain individuals in my personal and professional life for inspiration.
What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It's a dream come true. Since the age of 13 all I wanted to become was a professional fighter. When I accomplished that I could not wait to be a part of the UFC, and in 2010 I came to the U.S. to conquer that dream.
Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Yes. Bachelor's in physical education
What was your job before you started fighting? BJJ and Muay Thai Instructor
Specific accomplishments in pro competition? Winning and defending the RFA title
Ranks in any martial arts styles: Black Belt BJJ
Favorite grappling technique: Guillotine choke
Favorite Striking technique: Elbows and knees
TRAINING: MMA in the morning, BJJ/Boxing in the evening.
Specific accomplishments in pro competition? Winning and defending the RFA title.