Paquetá in photo by Junior Samurai
The black belt Osvaldo Paquetá is one of the most beloved figures in the gentle art world. During the early days of competition Jiu-Jitsu, there was the master capturing historic images, which today make up part of the most precious archive on the style there is.
To the dismay of friends all around the world, Paquetá has run into health problems. It all began during the broadcast of UFC 129, on April 30. Paquetá already wasn’t feeling well during Lyoto Machida’s win over Randy Couture. While José Aldo was in the act of overcoming Mark Hominick, the master was on his way to hospital. Proof of the health care crisis afflicting Brazil, Paquetá was made to go to a second hospital before being diagnosed with a heart attack.
Following examination and hospitalization, Paquetá was operated on this Monday, undergoing bypass surgery. Now at the intensive care unit of Rio de Janeiro’s Silvestre hospital, Osvaldo’s recovery is going so well that he looks ready to be released this Wednesday or Thursday.
“A lot of doctors here know me from Jiu-Jitsu; it’s amazing how there are people from the Jiu-Jitsu world everywhere you go,” was one of the statements he made, seeming quite laid back.
“We’re all in awe about how he’s recovering, he’s doing very well and getting better. He was also very touched by all the messages of support he’s been receiving,” remarked his daughter Fernanda.
The entire GRACIEMAG.com team is among those rooting for Paquetá in his recovery.