Poatan’s Tribe “Pataxó” Are Known For Being Warriors and Evoking Spirits
Recently the upcoming light-heavyweight challenger Jiří Procházka caused a lot of turmoil after claiming that part of the reason for Alex Poatan’s success in the UFC had something to do with “spiritual things”. At UFC 303 Media Day, the Czech said:
“I think he believes a lot in help of spiritual things, and that’s something that I think he can’t fight without,“ Procházka said. “Everybody knows he is working with some Shamanics, with some Shamans from his hometown and he believes in some spiritual help from them.“
In truth, Alex Pereira makes no secret of his belief and his Indigenous heritage. In response to his opponent, the Brazilian said:
“Everybody has their own spirits, we’re not only made of flesh and bone, I’ve found mine.“
Poatan’s Pataxó Heritage
In every ceremonial weigh-in, the Brazilian proudly sports the bodypaint and headdress representing the Pataxó Tribe. Also, Poatan is accompanied by the tribe Chieftain Ubiranan who is responsible for performing prayers ahead of each fight.
“I have known Poatan for more than eight years. I perform spiritual repair on his life,“ Ubiranan told UOL. “I am the son of the first Page, and I pray over his life so that he can always have open doors, win fights, and achieve his goals.“
The Pataxós are known for being proud warriors. Its language “Pataxó-hãhãhãe” direct translation means “Tongue of the Warrior”. Before rituals, the Pataxós apply natural paints to their bodies, using designs that represent the spirits they are invoking. The paints are made from plants, clay, and other natural materials.
In Gabriel de Souza’s 1587 manuscript “Tratado Descriptivo Do Brasil” (Descriptive Treaty of Brazil), the Pataxó were documented as warriors and adversaries of the colonists. Colonial agents often perceived them as obstacles to the expansion of colonization within the Captaincy of Porto Seguro.
However, the tribe eventually succumbed to Portuguese oppression. In addition to their military strength, Europeans introduced diseases like smallpox, measles, yellow fever, and the flu, which devastated Brazil’s native tribes.
As a result, the Pataxós migrated south over the years, eventually landing in the State of São Paulo, Alex Pereiras’ home state.
Pataxó vs Samurai Clash This Weekend
Jiří Procházka himself is not unbeknownst to “untraditional” methods to prepare for a fight. Notably, the Czech is known for entering complete isolation for three days during training camp. This week, on March 29, the two warriors clash once again, as the main event of UFC 303.
For Alex, he will be looking to add another title defense to his already impressive resume. Meanwhile, Procházka will go to fight night not only looking to avenge the loss to Poatan suffered on UFC 295, but also to reclaim the Light-Heavyweight belt.
Very interesting. Greetings from Japan
Hey people!!!!!
Good mood and good luck to everyone!!!!!