Osvaldo Paquetá
Permanently on the lookout for the best gems in BJJ, our team just dug up a treasure recorded 25 years ago by the sorely missed Osvaldo Paquetá, and which you get to see today exclusively on the Graciemag YouTube channel.
In the video, a young, promising Vitor Belfort, blue belt around his waist, steps on the mat to face Marco “Negão” (Brazilian Fight) at the CBJJ’s 1994 Brazilian National Championship, held at Akxe academy in Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro.
With skill to spare — and useful tips by Carlson Gracie — Vitor passes the guard and reaches the back before slipping onto a mount and achieving a choke with pressure from the top. Enjoy the footage, graciously provided by Master Osvaldo Paquetá’s historical collection, and remember young Belfort’s finishing style.
