Abstract
This paper analyses the process of construction of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). Describes part of the history of "valetudo" in Brazil, its internationalization and identifies the split between "valetudo" and MMA. Own characteristics considered as the transition from "valetudo" to MMA: the professional category; acceptance by media; the tightening of body control and codes of morality in the fighters' ethos; the creation of a new product to fight market; displacement identity of the "valetudo" fighters to MMA fighters.
KEYWORDS
Mixed martial arts; Valetudo; Market; Jiu-jitsu