One of the first to ever enter the famed UFC octagon has passed away. Helio Vigio was right there alongside Royce Gracie refereeing the tournament that changed the history of martial arts.
Vigio was 84 at the time. He had been battling cancer for the last 15 days in the hospital but died due to kidney failure earlier this morning.
Vigio’s family has confirmed the news following a report by PVT.
Vigio, 84, was a bjj red belt under the legendary Carlos Gracie.
Here’s Vigio standing next to Carlson Gracie
He had competed in Vale Tudo fights in his time along with refereeing historic fights. In addition to being a UFC ref he’s also done the same for the legendary fights such as Royce Gracie vs Wallid Ismail along with 1984 Vale Tudo event set in Rio De Janeiro.
Vigio was also a police officer. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and family of Helio Vigio.
You can read more of his biography on his bjjheroes page.
