Lightweight champ Augusto “Tanquinho” Mendes (in blue) was one of the standouts at the IBJJF Las Vegas Open. Photo: IBJJF.
The latest IBJJF open tournament, held in Las Vegas, was all the more striking because it marked the return of two black belt lightweight standouts to gi-clad combat.
Augusto Tanquinho made his comeback after surgery, adding another title to his mantel. Now two-time world champion Fredson Paixão, a former WEC and UFC fighter, donned his gi again and nabbed a bronze medal.
Check out the two aces of the gi in their respective semifinals against the equally stalwart Steven Rosenberg and Philipe “Furão” Della Monica.
For the complete results from the Las Vegas Open, click here.
