The violence of that fight would lead to the prohibition of Vale Tudo in Rio de Janeiro and merit chronicles in all newspapers in the city, including one by Nélson Rodrigues, entitled: “O preto que tinha uma alma negra”, in which the playwright analyzes the racial issue at the time.

[citation needed] But even after being defeated by Gracie, Santana continued with his status as a great sports icon.

[citation needed] In addition to Carlson Gracie fights, Black Leopard Leopardo Negro would fight several times with other great icons of his generation, such as Ivan Gomes, Euclides Pereira, and even with the Japanese Masahiko Kimura, whom he faced in Salvador under the rules of Vale-Tudo.

Santana requested a rematch under vale tudo rules (their first fight was apparently grappling only), and, this time, the result was a draw after 40 minutes in a bout in which both competitors reportedly drew blood.

Kimura fought this match despite having an injured knee; he was pressured by the promoter and police to fight against his doctor's orders.