Before Youtube and Facebook, even before OnTheMat, there was Oswaldo Paquetá. If you're not familiar with the Red Belt Grandmaster, chances are you are at least familiar with his work, as much if not all of the early footage of Jiu Jitsu from Brazil was shot and archived by the man and his video camera.
Paquetá easily has the largest collection of Jiu Jitsu video in the world and he is directly responsible for much of the growth of BJJ throughout the world. Many of the older generation will remember quite fondly watching a Paquetá video (on VHS sometimes so many generations old or worn out it was difficult to distinguish between competitors!)
Moreso, Oswaldo Paquetá was a friend of ours. He not only had a tremendous influence on OnTheMat, but he personally befriended and mentored Scotty, who will post a more personal reflection shortly.
R.I.P. to the Grandmaster Oswaldo Paquetá and thank you for everything.
onthemat.com
