Close Thumbnails

Getty Images reserves the right to pursue unauthorized users of this image or clip. If you violate our intellectual property you may be liable for: actual damages, loss of income, and profits you derive from the use of this image or clip, and, where appropriate, the costs of collection and/or statutory damages up to $150,000 (USD).

photo 1 of 128

Nate Marquardt & Rousimar Palhares

Nate Marquardt

TRAINING: I train every day to prepare myself to be the best on January 12. I will be in the best shape and my skills will be sharp!

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training when I was 15 years old. I was smaller in high school and didn’t grow until later, so when I saw the early UFCs with Royce Gracie I wanted to train in BJJ and MMA.

What ranks and titles have you held? Black belt Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, 2nd deg blackbelt Pancrase MMA/Jiu-Jitsu. 7 times King of Pancrase/ 1st middleweight King of Pancrase/ Pancrase 2002 Spirit Tour Champion, Pancrase Trans Tournament Champion/ Bas Rutten Invitational Middleweight Tournament Champion, Ring of Fire Middleweight Champion/ I.M.A. Rumble in the Rockies Tournament Champion

Do you have any heroes? Jesus Christ.

What is your favorite technique? The Marquardt Choke.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I went for two years but I left everything behind to go train in Japan.

What was your job before you started fighting? Desk job for the phone company. It really sucked!