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Armando
Castro
Certified Official
How did you get into MMA?
When I was 12 years old I came across the UFC 1, UFC 2 and UFC 3 in VHS at a video rental by my house. From there, my passion and support for the sport grew. As I continued following the sport (MMA, Boxing, Kickboxing, Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai) throughout my life, I continued to fall in love with the evolution of techniques, adaptation of multiple disciplines and the science behind it.
A few years after I was done with college and my baseball career I decided to start my MMA journey. From the moment I stepped into a boxing gym I knew there was something different and unique about combat sports. Then I transitioned to jiu jitsu where the art teaches to become a better human being in every aspect. Instantly, I became addicted to this lifestyle and it has been an integral part of my life. Then I came across Muay Thai, the art of eight limbs. The combinations are endless making it such a beautiful art. The energy that MMA brings to my life is unmatched.
What is your martial arts background?
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Belt: 4th Degree Brown Belt
November 2013 to Present
Competitions: IBJJF World Championship, IBJJF Masters World Championship, IBJJF Chicago Open, Regional Tournaments (Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, West Virginia)
Muay Thai
November 2020 to Present
Boxing
August 2010 to November 2013
Amateur Record: 2-1
Boxing Coach: May 2012 to November 2013
Why do you officiate MMA?
I firmly believe that athletes and the sport of MMA deserve highly qualified officials. The commitment from athletes and promotions should be respected and provided with the best officiating. This is a sport where fighters' careers and the promotions' reputation and success are at stake.
Being professional, knowledgable, and dedicated is the ultimate sign of respect and commitment to the sport. Through my education, training, and preparation I believe I possess all the qualities needed to perform as a referee/judge and provide the utmost standards of professionalism and dedication in order to officiate a fair and safe fight.
What is your career background?
Professional Experience:
United States Postal Service
Office of Inspector General
Office of Audit - Auditor
Start/End Date: 10/2022 - Present
Department of Defense
Colorado Army National Guard
Office of Internal Review - Lead Auditor
Start/End Date: 9/2020 – 9/2022
Department of Defense
Defense Finance and Accounting Service
Information Technology Audit Support - Financial Systems Analyst
Departmental Reporting - Accountant
Office of Internal Review - Auditor
Start/End Date: 08/2006 - 9/2020
Education:
Bowling Green State University
Master of Accountancy, August 2006
Specialization: Tax
University of Puerto Rico
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, August 2000 - May 2005
Specialization: Accounting and Finance
Competencies:
Fully bilingual (English and Spanish), Beginner (Portuguese)
Awards/Honors
Dean’s List (Student Athlete), 2003
Baseball Team Member/Captain, University of Puerto Rico, 2001-2005
What do you do on your time off?
Train Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai, Study MMA, Travel, Learn a different language, Read books on personal growth, Meditate, Backpacking/Hiking, Quality time with family and friends
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