Cain Velasquez vs. Junior Dos Santos: A Profile of Cain Velasquez

With the emergence of such fighters as Jon Jones, Phil Davis and Alexander Gustafsson, perhaps there is no other fighter who possesses a rare combination of skill, cardio and speed quite like Cain Velasquez. 

Velasquez is a much slender heavyweight, tipping the scales at 240 pounds, while maintaining the quickness and cardio of a welterweight. The Mexican-American has certainly become a staple in the heavyweight division and an ambassador to the sport with his calm, humble demeanor. 

Velasquez prides himself on dedication and hard work, a trait that was fostered by his parents who migrated to the United States from Mexico. Settling in Yuma, Arizona, Velasquez' father, Efrain, worked in the fields in hopes of providing a better life for his family. It was there where Velasquez would learn about hard work and dedication, which would lead the 29-year-old on a path of success throughout his years in college. 

Velasquez earned a spot on the wrestling team at Arizona State University, where he compiled a record of 86-17 and was a two-time All-American, finishing fifth and fourth in 2005 and 2006 respectively. Velasquez's wrestling credentials would allow him to pursue a career in mixed martial arts, and he made his debut for the UFC in 2007 after beginning 2-0. Velasquez would continue his dominance with victories over Cheick Kongo, Ben Rothwell and Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira. 

However, Velasquez would truly show his potential when he met Brock Lesnar at UFC 122 for the heavyweight title. His combination of technical, fluid striking, along with initiating a strong grappling game, allowed him to overcome Lesnar's size and strength to capture the UFC heavyweight crown. Velasquez's years of strong work ethic and dedication has brought him to the pinnacle of MMA, but yet, he faces a tall order in Junior dos Santos. 

Velasquez's pace and wrestling ultimately wares down his opponents and is very effective at overwhelming his opponent on the ground with positional control and ground-and-pound. The Brazilian is much more aggressive, utilizing technical, accurate boxing, implementing fundamental footwork and strong takedown defense. Two different styles, but they are both equally effective. 

Velasquez will look continue his dominance, as he hopes to begin his heavyweight title reign with a victory over dos Santos.

From an early age, Velasquez worked hard to achieve his goals and dreams, and now he is living that dream as UFC heavyweight champion, proving that no obstacle is too hard to overcome.