In Rio de Janeiro, under the blazing sun and accompanied by Brazilian music, around 90 barbers gathered on Sunday, Dec 15, to compete in a prestigious annual event that enhances the careers of its winners and attracts global attention.

Held in a park in Rio's Madureira neighborhood, the barbers transformed volunteers' hair into intricate designs, using clippers to create both abstract and detailed patterns.

"Ten years ago, being a barber was considered outdated, something from my grandfather's time, and the profession wasn't respected," said Erica Nunes, the event's founder. "The barber battle emerged to give this profession the recognition it deserves."

Over the years, the competition has become a celebrated tradition in Rio's suburbs, drawing barbers from across Brazil and neighboring countries. "We are well-prepared and excited," said Allan Gonzales, a barber from Bolivia.

In a setting resembling an MMA ring, barbers competed in four categories, with their work judged by a panel. Marcelo Anderson, also known as Magnific, won the drawing category for the fourth time, impressing the judges with portraits of two men shaved into the side of a client's head. He shared that each victory brings a surge of visibility, fans, and a boost in clientele, particularly through social media.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters