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General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Brazilian no-holds-barred Vale Tudo emerged in the 1920s as an uninhibited efficiency test for martial arts. Its belt system (White to Black Belt) borrows from BJJ and Luta Livre traditions, evaluating a fighter's capacity to integrate striking, takedowns, and ground submission under extreme pressure.

Faixa Branca – White Belt

Faixa BrancaRank #1

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic ring stance, Luta Livre/Muay Thai strikes, and bare-knuckle ground wrestling.

Symbolism & Meaning

Start of the tough Brazilian full-contact Vale Tudo wrestling academy.

Faixa Azul – Blue Belt

Faixa AzulRank #2

Typical gap since previous grade: 18 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Clinch knee combinations, Takedowns, and Heel-hook leg locks.

Symbolism & Meaning

First official fighter rank in Brazilian CBVT confederation.

Faixa Roxa – Purple Belt

Faixa RoxaRank #3

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Ground and Pound striking control, side control escapes, and hard sparring.

Symbolism & Meaning

Advanced level preparing for professional no-holds-barred fights.

Faixa Marrom – Brown Belt

Faixa MarromRank #4

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Victories in professional Vale Tudo fights in Rio and instant submission holds.

Symbolism & Meaning

Pre-master tier of the toughest Brazilian fighters.

Faixa Preta – Black Belt (Mestre)

Faixa PretaRank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Full master level. Vale Tudo arena champion, teaching strategy, and running academy.

Symbolism & Meaning

Faixa Preta = Mestre Vale Tudo, living legend of Brazilian full-contact MMA.