Fredson Paixão
Fredson Paixão Melo is a Brazilian mixed martial artist and Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioner. He has competed as a featherweight the UFC, WEC, Deep, and Jungle Fight. He is also a world champion in Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Background
Paixão earned his black belt from Osvaldo Alves in 1998. He has won multiple World Championships as a black belt. He took first place at Mundials in 1998 ; and in 2001, 2002, and 2005. In addition, he finished second in 2004.In May 2010, Paixão defeated Caol Uno in a submission grappling bout at the UFC Fan Expo held in Las Vegas at UFC 114.
Mixed martial arts career
Paixão made his WEC debut at WEC 40, where he lost a unanimous decision to Wagnney Fabiano.In his next fight, Paixao fought Cole Province at WEC 42, where he originally suffered a split decision loss. The result was later changed to a no contest after Province tested positive for banned substances during a post-fight screening.
Paixão was expected to face Bryan Caraway on March 6, 2010, at WEC 47, but Caraway was forced off the card with an injury. Paixão instead faced Courtney Buck and won via first round submission. Paixão eventually fought and defeated Caraway via split decision at WEC 50.