MMA Roots: Luta Livre vs. Jiu-Jitsu and Paulo Filho’s Debut at Heroes 1

After the infamous Pentagon Combat brawl led to a ban on vale tudo in Rio de Janeiro for three years, only one of the sport’s major icons possessed the necessary leadership to bring together the top names in luta livre and jiu-jitsu on the same card in a peaceful environment. Organized by the legendary Carlson Gracie, Heroes 1 took place on July 24, 2000 at Tio Sam Gymnasium. In addition to excellent clashes between the two disciplines across two tournaments and multiple superfights, the event was marked by the mixed martial arts debut of judo and jiu-jitsu phenom Paulo Filho.