A few years ago I asked Urijah Faber how he envisions his career trajectory. Does he see himself as one of those larger-than-life athletes who can transcend a sport, much like an Oscar De La Hoya or a Michael Jordan, who have the uncanny power to make even non-fans know their name? Faber indicated this might be something that appeals to him, and pointed to soccer icon David Beckham as someone he admires.

“David Beckham is one guy I think has been great with athletics and sports,” Faber said. “He’s branded himself and become something more than just a sport. He’s one guy I think has done a great job with it. I’m not a big planner, but I could see doing some entertainment stuff down the road. But my first love is fighting. I actually was into acting before I was into MMA, when I was a little kid. My mom was a model and an actress. I did commercials and plays and stuff like that when I was a little kid. But I’m more into athletics.”