Over the last several years, with seemingly increasing frequency, Zuffa has made an increased effort to invite Brazilian prospects straight from their homeland (or elsewhere) into the UFC (or previously, the WEC).
Our counts show 31 Brazilians who had fought previously, but never in the USA, then had their first match with either the UFC or WEC, since late 2004.
Prior to Zuffa: 361-47-4 (.876 Win %)
First Match in Zuffa: 15-16 (.484 Win %)
Future Matches in Zuffa: 54-36 (.600 Win %)
These statistics suggest that the Brazilians were “thrown to the wolves” and/or got a big shock when facing top-notch talent. However, either by more friendly matchmaking, or simply by adjustment, they did fairly well afterwards.