Alexandre Franca Nogueira

Who is Alexandre Franca Nogueira?

Alexandre Franca "Pequeno" Nogueira is a Brazilian Luta Livre fighter and the former Shooto Lightweight Champion, a Japanese mixed martial arts organization. Nogueira began his professional career at the age of 21, defeating Noboru Asahi. He trains with the World Fight Center. Nogueira also holds the record for longest title reign in any MMA organization, reigning as Shooto Lightweight Champion for six years, eight months, and two days before having to vacate the title due to a knee injury.

The California State Athletic Commission had suspended Alexandre Nogueira, for one year and fined him $2,500, for failing a drug test at a June 1, 2008 WEC show. He tested positive for Boldenone, a banned substance.