Manny Lara began vale tudo training in 2008 before deciding to pursue a career as a mixed martial artist in early 2009. Weighing in at only 240 pounds, Lara is undersized for the heavyweight division and will likely need to move to a lower weight division at some point in his career.

Lara shows good agility and hand speed on his feet. He’s also blessed with excellent punching power and a heavy right hand. Lara throws effective knees in the clinch, and overall is an aggressive striker who looks to finish. He’s also proven to be a tough combatant who won’t shy away from being hit. He continues moving forward – walking through punches if necessary, and will gladly stand and trade in the pocket. Lara’s active fighting style does lead to him getting tired at times, and he will require work on his cardio training.

While Lara isn’t an explosive wrestler, he does attempt to take his opponent to the ground. He moves well from top position where he patiently waits for openings. At the same time Lara’s capable of rearing back and opening up with an aggressive flurry of strikes. He hits fast and hard, throwing heavy punches and big elbows from the top. In terms of Brazilan Jiu Jitsu, Lara is still working on his technical ground skills and submission abilities. He has shown he’ll try to take advantage of submission opportunities on the mat (even if it means going to guard), but technically he’s still green. Lara can be put on his back and his guard game is in the early stages of its development. He gives up position very easily, having had his guard passed as well as his mount and back secured with little resistance in early fights. As a tough, resilient fighter, Lara won’t give in regardless of the situation he finds himself in even though he has significant work to put into his grappling arsenal.