Luta Livre Esportiva (Portuguese pronunciation: [ˈlutɐ ˈlivɾi iʃpoʁˈtʃivɐ]) was created in the mid-20th century in Rio de Janeiro by Euclydes "Tatu" Hatem who fought and defeated George Gracie in the 40s.[citation needed] The system focused on ground fighting and submissions due to their importance in Vale Tudo matches. In the 1970's Luta Livre was strongly influenced by father and son duo Fausto and Carlos Brunocilla. The Brunocilla were Tatu's pupils and were in turn responsible for graduating many Luta Livre Masters.