Finding success in combat sports is all about making the most of opportunity.

Whether it’s a small window to make a move in jiu-jitsu, or a combination that opens up a clean punch or kick in mixed martial arts, the ability to capitalize is what makes the difference between winning and losing. Josh Calvo is well aware of this reality.

The Washington state native’s keenness to the fact fortune favors the bold is what prompted him to answer the call to compete at the inaugural installment of Submission Underground. When a spot opposite Felipe “Braga” Costa opened up in Portland, Calvo jumped at the chance to participate on the card.

Calvo knows the eyes of the mma and jiu-jitsu worlds will be on Submission Underground, and he’s looking to shine bright on a card full of stars.

“It was a great opportunity to jump on. When I got the offer from Chael I was getting ready for a fight in Australia. I went there and fought, and jumped back into the gym to prepare for this bout. Everything about this show is going to boost my profile. It’s being put on by Chael Sonnen and he’s the best guy you could possibly want to promote an event.”

“Guys like Jake Shields and Chris Lytle are fighters I’ve been watching for a very long time. It’s an absolute honor to be on the same card as them. I’m always looking to win so I’m going out there to hunt for the finish. We’ll see how these cards play out and I’m looking forward to Sunday.”

With Calvo competing in both MMA and jiu-jitsu on a professional level his mindset is already locked putting away his opposition. And where other jiu-jitsu promotions get bogged down with point fighting and unfulfilling draws, Submission Underground matches will have a definitive victory in every matchup.

Calvo loves the high stakes involved and he’s fired up to get to work in Portland.

“I think [EBI Rules] favors my style,” Calvo said. “I’m aggressive and always looking for the finish. What better rule set for my style is there? Having EBI for Submission Underground is a huge appeal because it’s not going to go to points or end in a draw. It’s strictly submission only.

“I like the format just because there will be a winner and a loser. That solidifies things. If you submit your opponent there’s no ands, ifs or buts….you caught him slipping.”

With his bout against Costa taking place inside a cage, Calvo also feels the setting will further play to his advantage.

“It kind of feels like an MMA fight to be honest,” Calvo said. “They are promoting it like it is and the match takes place in a cage. The event is in a nice venue and I really think it will be grittier than a lot of other promotions out there. Fans are going to see a lot of finishes and I’m looking forward to it.”

While Calvo is quick to admit he doesn’t know all that much about Costa, that won’t hinder his focus on emerging victorious on Sunday. Calvo doesn’t take any part of competition lightly, and will be going full throttle from start to finish at Submission Underground.

“I haven’t seen any footage or have ever really heard anything about him,” Calvo said. “I know he’s a black belt under Formiga and he’s gonna be a tough opponent. I’m definitely taking him seriously and I’m always up for a challenge. I’m looking forward to a great match.”