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When it comes to world-class MMA talent, few gyms can claim the kind of legacy forged at Longo’s MMA in Garden City, Long Island . On January 18, 2025, that legacy grew even stronger. In the heart of Inglewood, California, the UFC 311 event became more than just another night in the Octagon—it became a defining moment for Merab Dvalishvili , the reigning bantamweight champion and proud representative of Longo’s MMA. His thrilling performance against the undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov not only secured his place in UFC history but also shined a national spotlight on the hard work, grit, and excellence cultivated right here in Garden City, NY . Whether you're a passionate fight fan, a Garden City local looking to train like a champion, or someone curious about what sets Longo’s MMA apart, this blog will take you through everything you need to know about UFC 311, Merab’s historic performance, and what it means for the future of MMA in Long Island. Merab Dvalishvili: Long Island's Relentless Champion Before diving into the card, let’s talk about the man of the hour: Merab “The Machine” Dvalishvili . Trained under the watchful eye of UFC legend Ray Longo, Merab has built a reputation as one of the most relentless grapplers in the UFC. Known for his seemingly bottomless cardio tank, takedown-heavy style, and never-back-down mentality, Merab entered UFC 311 as the defending bantamweight champion with a chip on his shoulder and history in his sights. Going up against Umar Nurmagomedov , a member of the famed Dagestani fighting lineage and cousin to Khabib Nurmagomedov, was no small task. Umar was undefeated, dangerous, and widely regarded as the future of the division. But Merab had other plans. The Co-Main Event: Merab vs. Umar – Relentless Pressure Meets Perfect Execution From the opening bell, Merab showcased exactly why he's called “The Machine.” Instead of being deterred by Umar’s early striking success, Merab doubled down on pressure, pushing the pace, chaining takedown attempts, and never giving Umar a moment to breathe. It was the type of performance that defines championship grit. Over five intense rounds, Merab outworked his opponent, landing crucial takedowns, controlling positions, and dictating the rhythm of the fight. The judges saw it the same way, awarding Merab a unanimous decision (48–47, 48–47, 49–46). But the victory was more than just a win—it was a record-breaker. With this fight, Merab officially surpassed Georges St-Pierre’s all-time takedown record , setting a new benchmark for future generations. A fighter from Long Island , trained in Garden City, just made history on MMA’s biggest stage. What This Win Means for Longo’s MMA and Garden City For residents of Garden City and the greater Long Island community , this was more than just a fight—it was a hometown hero making the world take notice. Longo’s MMA has long been a proving ground for elite fighters. From Chris Weidman’s legendary knockout of Anderson Silva to Aljamain Sterling’s rise as bantamweight champ, the gym is no stranger to the spotlight. Now, Merab’s performance at UFC 311 further cements Longo’s MMA as one of the most respected and results-driven MMA academies in the country. And if you’re someone in Garden City, NY , interested in training MMA, fitness, or self-defense, this is your sign. You don’t have to travel far to learn from the best. You can train where champions are made—right here in your backyard. UFC 311 Full Card Recap – A Night of High-Stakes Action While Merab’s win was the highlight, UFC 311 delivered excitement from top to bottom. Here’s a quick breakdown of the major fights: Main Event: Islam Makhachev vs. Renato Moicano – Lightweight Title Fight Originally scheduled to be a rematch between Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan, the fight took a twist when Tsarukyan withdrew, and Renato Moicano stepped in on just one day's notice. While Moicano’s courage deserves respect, the fight showcased why Islam Makhachev is considered one of the most dominant fighters in the sport. With clinical precision, Makhachev locked in a D’Arce choke submission late in the first round, defending his lightweight title for the fourth time. That submission also gave him the most title defenses in UFC lightweight history. Jiří Procházka vs. Jamahal Hill – Light Heavyweight Clash In what was arguably the most explosive performance of the night, Jiří Procházka stopped Jamahal Hill in the third round with a flurry of elbows and hammerfists. His unorthodox style, durability, and finishing instinct reminded fans why he’s one of the most dangerous men in the division. Jailton Almeida vs. Serghei Spivac – Heavyweight Showcase Jailton Almeida continued to climb the heavyweight ranks with a devastating first-round TKO over Spivac. With each fight, Almeida looks more like a future title contender, combining speed, strength, and submission prowess. Reinier de Ridder vs. Kevin Holland – UFC Debut to Remember Making his UFC debut after a successful run in ONE Championship, Reinier de Ridder impressed fans by submitting the always-game Kevin Holland with a rear-naked choke in the first round. This performance instantly put him on the middleweight radar. Why Merab’s Victory Resonates Beyond the Octagon What makes Merab’s win so meaningful , especially for those in Long Island , is how it encapsulates the spirit of Longo’s MMA: Hard Work Over Hype : Merab has never been the loudest voice in the room, but his work ethic speaks volumes. Just like the dedicated students at Longo’s MMA, he proves that consistency and hustle beat hype every time. Team Above Self : From Ray Longo to Aljamain Sterling, Merab has always emphasized team loyalty. His victory was a win for everyone who’s ever stepped into the gym in Garden City. The Blueprint for Success : For aspiring fighters or fitness enthusiasts in Garden City , Merab’s story is the blueprint. Show up, put in the work, and trust the process. The results speak for themselves. Train Like a Champion at Longo’s MMA in Garden City If watching UFC 311 has inspired you, now is the perfect time to take action. Whether you’re dreaming of stepping into the cage, looking to improve your fitness, or simply want to learn self-defense in a welcoming environment, Longo’s MMA offers programs for beginners to professionals . With world-class instruction, a proven track record, and a supportive community, there’s no better place to start your journey. And who knows? The next Merab might just be walking through our doors right now.

UFC 306: Merab Dvalishvili Overpowers Sean O'Malley to Capture the Bantamweight Title at The Sphere On September 14, 2024, UFC 306 delivered a highly anticipated showdown between Sean O'Malley and Merab Dvalishvili for the UFC Bantamweight Championship at the cutting-edge Sphere in Las Vegas. In what turned out to be a grueling five-round battle, Merab Dvalishvili’s relentless wrestling and pace overwhelmed O'Malley, securing him a unanimous decision victory and the UFC Bantamweight Championship. The Build-Up: O'Malley vs. Dvalishvili Sean O'Malley, who won the bantamweight title by TKO against Aljamain Sterling, was riding high as the new king of the division. Known for his flashy striking, creative footwork, and knockout power, O'Malley was looking to solidify his reign by taking on one of the most feared contenders in the bantamweight division—Merab Dvalishvili. Merab, representing the Serra-Longo Fight Team, had earned a reputation for his relentless cardio, wrestling dominance, and pressure-heavy style. With a string of impressive wins and the hunger for gold, "The Machine" was poised to bring his trademark high pace into the Octagon and wear down O'Malley over the course of five rounds. The Fight: A Relentless Assault From the opening bell, Merab Dvalishvili set the tone with his relentless forward pressure and constant takedown attempts, making it difficult for O'Malley to find his range and establish his striking rhythm. Despite O'Malley’s impressive footwork and striking skills, Merab's game plan centered around grappling and control, and it worked to perfection. Throughout the fight, Dvalishvili secured multiple takedowns and maintained top control, effectively neutralizing O'Malley's offense. O'Malley landed a few clean strikes but was unable to fend off Merab’s constant barrage of wrestling and clinch work. The relentless pace set by Merab, along with his grappling acumen, wore down the champion, allowing him to control most of the exchanges. The Decision: Merab Becomes Champion After five rounds of dominance, the judges awarded Merab Dvalishvili the win by unanimous decision (49-46, 48-47, 48-47), crowning him the new UFC Bantamweight Champion. His victory was a testament to his conditioning, relentless work ethic, and the strategic brilliance of the Serra-Longo Fight Team. Merab’s performance at UFC 306 marks a significant moment in his career and a major victory for the Serra-Longo team, which continues to produce elite-level champions. The Sphere, with its innovative and immersive setting, provided the perfect backdrop for this historic bout​.​ What’s Next for the Bantamweight Division? With Merab Dvalishvili now holding the bantamweight belt, the division is wide open for new matchups. O'Malley remains one of the most dangerous strikers in the UFC, and a potential rematch could be on the horizon. For now, Dvalishvili stands atop the division, ready to defend his title and cement his legacy as one of the best bantamweights in the world. Join Our Team: If reading about the victories of the Serra-Longo Fight Team has inspired you, why not experience it for yourself? Whether you're a beginner or an experienced martial artist, Ray Longo's MMA Academy offers top-tier training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, Boxing, Youth Marital Arts and more . Join a community dedicated to excellence, resilience, and growth under the guidance of world-class coaches. Take the first step towards reaching your own potential—sign up for a free trial class today and train like a champion!

UFC 292: Sterling vs. O'Malley – A Tough Night for the Serra-Longo Fight Team as the Bantamweight Title Changes Hands On August 19, 2023, UFC 292 saw a seismic shift in the bantamweight division, as Aljamain Sterling, the reigning champion and proud representative of the Serra-Longo Fight Team, faced off against rising star Sean O'Malley. Sterling entered the bout as one of the most dominant champions in bantamweight history, but in a stunning turn of events, he lost his title via TKO in the second round, marking the end of his championship reign. Despite the loss, Sterling’s journey and accomplishments continue to reflect the heart and dedication of the Serra-Longo Fight Team. The Build-Up: Sterling’s Legacy vs. O’Malley’s Momentum Heading into UFC 292, Aljamain Sterling was riding a wave of momentum, having defended his title against top-tier competition, including Petr Yan, T.J. Dillashaw, and Henry Cejudo. Sterling had built a legacy as one of the most well-rounded and tactical fighters in the division, blending his grappling expertise with improving striking and a high fight IQ, courtesy of the years of coaching under Ray Longo and Matt Serra.  His challenger, Sean O’Malley, was a rising star known for his flashy striking, unorthodox movement, and knockout power. While O’Malley had a flair for the dramatic both inside and outside the Octagon, his skills were undeniable, and UFC 292 was the stage for him to prove that he belonged among the elite of the bantamweight division. For Sterling and the Serra-Longo Fight Team, the strategy was clear: close the distance, neutralize O’Malley’s striking, and use Sterling’s superior grappling to wear down the challenger. Ray Longo and Matt Serra had worked with Sterling on executing a game plan that would exploit O’Malley’s lack of experience in championship-level grappling. However, in MMA, even the best-laid plans can unravel in an instant. The Fight: A Sudden Shift in Momentum From the start, Aljamain Sterling looked to implement his game plan by closing the distance and pressuring O’Malley. The first round was competitive, with Sterling using his movement and timing to work his way inside, but O’Malley’s evasive footwork made it difficult for Sterling to secure clean takedowns or land significant strikes. Then, early in the second round, the fight took a sudden and dramatic turn. As Sterling moved forward to close the distance, O’Malley capitalized on an opening, landing a perfectly timed right hand that sent Sterling to the canvas. The strike stunned the champion, and O’Malley wasted no time in following up with ground-and-pound, forcing the referee to step in and stop the fight. With that, Sean O’Malley was crowned the new UFC Bantamweight Champion via TKO. For the Serra-Longo Fight Team, the outcome was undoubtedly disappointing. Aljamain Sterling, who had been a dominant force in the division, saw his title reign come to an abrupt end. However, the fight also highlighted the unpredictable nature of mixed martial arts—where one well-timed strike can change everything in an instant. A Tough Loss, But a Champion’s Legacy Remains Although the result didn’t go in Sterling’s favor, his championship legacy remains intact. Aljamain Sterling’s reign as the UFC Bantamweight Champion was filled with impressive victories, and his ability to rise to the occasion against the toughest competitors solidified his place in UFC history. His achievements as a champion, along with the heart and determination he showed in every fight, continue to define his career. For Ray Longo and Matt Serra, UFC 292 was a reminder that the fight game can be unforgiving, but it’s also about resilience and learning from setbacks. The Serra-Longo Fight Team has built its reputation on crafting champions who not only win titles but also handle defeat with dignity and a commitment to bounce back stronger. What’s Next for Aljamain Sterling? While UFC 292 marked the end of Aljamain Sterling’s title reign, it certainly doesn’t mark the end of his career. Sterling remains one of the most well-rounded fighters in the division, and with the support of Ray Longo and Matt Serra, he will undoubtedly be back in contention for the belt. The loss to O’Malley may have been a setback, but Sterling’s championship mindset and work ethic will fuel his path to redemption. At Longo’s MMA Academy, the lessons from UFC 292 will be valuable for fighters and students alike. Sterling’s preparation, despite the outcome, was thorough and strategic, showing the importance of a well-rounded skill set in modern MMA. Whether you’re training to compete or working on self-improvement, the Serra-Longo team’s focus on discipline, resilience, and adaptability is the same approach that has guided champions like Sterling throughout their careers. Moving Forward: The Serra-Longo Fight Team’s Continued Pursuit of Excellence Aljamain Sterling’s loss at UFC 292 was a tough moment for the Serra-Longo Fight Team, but it’s also an opportunity for growth and reflection. Ray Longo and Matt Serra have always emphasized that fighters are defined not just by their victories but by how they handle adversity. The team’s dedication to building champions who can adapt and overcome setbacks will undoubtedly fuel Sterling’s return to the top. With a long career ahead of him, Sterling will continue to be a formidable presence in the bantamweight division. UFC 292 may have marked the end of his title reign, but it also sets the stage for his comeback—a chapter that fans of the Serra-Longo Fight Team will eagerly anticipate. Join Our Team: If reading about the victories of the Serra-Longo Fight Team has inspired you, why not experience it for yourself? Whether you're a beginner or an experienced martial artist, Ray Longo's MMA Academy offers top-tier training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, Boxing, Youth Marital Arts and more . Join a community dedicated to excellence, resilience, and growth under the guidance of world-class coaches. Take the first step towards reaching your own potential—sign up for a free trial class today and train like a champion!

UFC 288: Sterling vs. Cejudo – Aljamain Sterling's Grit and Strategy Lead to Victory Over a UFC Legend On May 6, 2023, UFC 288 delivered an epic showdown between reigning UFC Bantamweight Champion Aljamain Sterling and former two-division champion Henry Cejudo. In what many considered one of the toughest challenges of Sterling's career, the "Funk Master" once again represented the Serra-Longo Fight Team with pride and strategy, retaining his bantamweight title via split decision. This victory further solidified Sterling’s legacy as one of the most dominant champions in the division’s history and showcased the strategic brilliance of Ray Longo and Matt Serra. The Build-Up: A Challenge Like No Other Aljamain Sterling entered UFC 288 on a strong run of title defenses, having already secured victories over Petr Yan and T.J. Dillashaw. But this fight was different—Sterling was now facing Henry Cejudo, one of the most decorated fighters in UFC history. Cejudo, a former Olympic gold medalist in wrestling and a two-division UFC champion, had retired in 2020 but made his return specifically to reclaim the bantamweight title he once held. For Sterling, this fight wasn’t just about defending his belt—it was about proving that he could overcome one of the most well-rounded fighters the UFC had ever seen. The challenge was enormous, but the Serra-Longo Fight Team was prepared. Ray Longo and Matt Serra had developed a game plan that focused on Sterling’s unique grappling, unpredictable movement, and ability to outlast opponents in the later rounds. The Fight: A Battle of Tactics and Will The fight was as competitive as expected, with both Sterling and Cejudo showcasing their high-level skills. From the opening round, it was clear that Cejudo’s wrestling and striking were still elite, but Sterling’s movement and volume made it difficult for Cejudo to get into a rhythm. The first few rounds were back-and-forth, with Sterling using his reach advantage and sharp striking to keep Cejudo at bay. As the fight progressed, Sterling’s grappling began to take center stage. While Cejudo’s wrestling pedigree was world-class, Sterling’s ability to scramble and control positions gave him the edge in key moments. On multiple occasions, Sterling successfully defended Cejudo’s takedown attempts while mixing in his own offensive wrestling and ground control. The training he received from Matt Serra, particularly in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and positioning, was evident as he neutralized Cejudo’s grappling offense. However, the fight was far from one-sided. Cejudo’s experience and fight IQ allowed him to remain dangerous throughout the bout, landing significant strikes and forcing Sterling to constantly adjust. Each round was closely contested, with both fighters exchanging control and momentum. The Decision: Sterling Retains the Title After five hard-fought rounds, the fight went to the judges’ scorecards. The decision was razor-close, but two of the three judges awarded the fight to Aljamain Sterling via split decision. The victory marked Sterling’s third successful title defense, and his reign as the bantamweight champion continued. For Sterling, the victory was not just about retaining his belt—it was a validation of his skills, heart, and ability to compete with the very best. Cejudo was arguably one of the toughest opponents Sterling had ever faced, and his ability to go the full five rounds with a UFC legend was a testament to his growth as a fighter. For Ray Longo and Matt Serra, this win was a defining moment. Their ability to craft a winning game plan against such a high-caliber opponent demonstrated the depth of their coaching expertise. Sterling’s ability to stay composed, follow the plan, and adapt to Cejudo’s game was a reflection of the preparation and strategy that the Serra-Longo Fight Team is known for. The Legacy of UFC 288: Sterling’s Continued Dominance Aljamain Sterling’s win at UFC 288 further solidified his place as one of the greatest bantamweights in UFC history. His ability to defeat a fighter of Cejudo’s caliber—who had previously dominated two weight classes—cemented his legacy as a dominant and well-rounded champion. With his split-decision victory, Sterling proved that he could rise to the occasion against any style and overcome even the most decorated opponents. At Longo’s MMA Academy, the lessons learned from UFC 288 continue to inspire fighters and students alike. Sterling’s success wasn’t just about physical skill—it was about mental toughness, resilience, and the ability to adapt to whatever challenge is in front of you. Whether you're an aspiring fighter or someone looking to sharpen your martial arts skills, the values that guided Sterling to victory at UFC 288 are the same principles that drive the training at Longo’s MMA Academy. Looking Ahead: Sterling’s Reign and the Future of the Serra-Longo Fight Team With his victory over Henry Cejudo, Aljamain Sterling’s reign as UFC Bantamweight Champion remains as strong as ever. As he looks toward future challenges, the Serra-Longo Fight Team will continue to play a pivotal role in his preparation and success. For Ray Longo and Matt Serra, UFC 288 was yet another demonstration of their ability to develop champions and prepare them for the highest levels of competition. As the bantamweight division moves forward, one thing is clear: Aljamain Sterling, backed by the Serra-Longo Fight Team, will continue to be a dominant force, and UFC 288 will forever stand as a testament to his skill, determination, and championship mindset. Join Our Team: If reading about the victories of the Serra-Longo Fight Team has inspired you, why not experience it for yourself? Whether you're a beginner or an experienced martial artist, Ray Longo's MMA Academy offers top-tier training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, Boxing, Youth Marital Arts and more . Join a community dedicated to excellence, resilience, and growth under the guidance of world-class coaches. Take the first step towards reaching your own potential—sign up for a free trial class today and train like a champion!

UFC 280: Sterling vs. Dillashaw – Dominance on Display from the Serra-Longo Fight Team On October 22, 2022, UFC 280 showcased a highly anticipated co-main event between Aljamain Sterling and T.J. Dillashaw for the UFC Bantamweight Championship. Coming off a successful title defense against Petr Yan, Sterling entered this bout with confidence and the full support of the Serra-Longo Fight Team. Across the Octagon stood the former champion, T.J. Dillashaw, looking to reclaim the belt and reestablish his dominance in the division. What followed was a one-sided display of Sterling’s grappling mastery, resulting in a TKO victory and further cementing his place as the king of the bantamweight division. The Build-Up: A Battle of Styles Aljamain Sterling came into UFC 280 on the heels of a hard-fought win over Petr Yan at UFC 273, where he silenced his critics by proving his championship pedigree. This time, Sterling faced a different challenge in T.J. Dillashaw, a former two-time bantamweight champion known for his striking, movement, and relentless pace. Dillashaw was returning after a controversial win against Cory Sandhagen, which raised questions about his durability and conditioning following a long layoff and surgery. For Sterling and the Serra-Longo Fight Team, the game plan was clear: use Sterling’s elite grappling to nullify Dillashaw’s striking and wear him down on the ground. Under the guidance of Ray Longo and Matt Serra, Sterling was prepared to capitalize on every opportunity to use his wrestling, grappling, and submission skills. The question heading into UFC 280 was whether Dillashaw’s experience and striking could withstand the relentless pressure that Sterling and his team had planned to bring. The Fight: Sterling’s Grappling Dominance From the very start, Aljamain Sterling imposed his will on the fight. Early in the first round, it became apparent that Dillashaw was compromised, later revealed to be due to a pre-existing shoulder injury. Nevertheless, Sterling wasted no time in taking advantage, shooting for a takedown and securing control on the ground. Sterling’s grappling was overwhelming, as he quickly advanced to dominant positions, raining down ground-and-pound and threatening submissions. For Ray Longo and Matt Serra, this was exactly what they had trained Sterling to do—maintain positional control, tire out the opponent, and deliver punishing strikes from top position. Dillashaw, to his credit, displayed toughness and fought through the pain, but he was unable to mount any significant offense or defend against Sterling’s suffocating pressure. As the fight progressed, Sterling continued to dominate on the ground, leaving Dillashaw with no room to recover or establish any rhythm. The champion’s relentless pace and grappling clinic left no doubt about who was in control. Sterling’s strikes from top position were heavy and effective, leading the referee to stop the fight in the second round via TKO, securing Sterling’s second successful title defense. A Defining Victory for Sterling and the Serra-Longo Team Aljamain Sterling’s performance at UFC 280 was a statement of dominance. While Dillashaw’s injury certainly played a role in the fight’s outcome, Sterling’s execution of his game plan was flawless. His grappling, which has long been a hallmark of his style, was on full display, leaving no doubt that he is one of the most dangerous fighters in the bantamweight division. For the Serra-Longo Fight Team, this victory was another shining example of their ability to craft champions. Ray Longo’s focus on striking defense and timing, combined with Matt Serra’s world-class jiu-jitsu expertise, created a perfect strategy for Sterling to exploit Dillashaw’s weaknesses. This fight was a testament to the team’s attention to detail and ability to prepare their fighters for any challenge. The Legacy of UFC 280: Sterling’s Continued Reign With his victory over T.J. Dillashaw, Aljamain Sterling further solidified his legacy as one of the most dominant bantamweights in UFC history. His ability to impose his grappling game against elite competition is a testament to his skills and the training he receives from Ray Longo and Matt Serra. Sterling’s journey as a champion continues to inspire fighters and students at Longo’s MMA Academy, where the values of hard work, preparation, and resilience are instilled in every student. Whether you’re training to compete or simply looking to improve your martial arts skills, the lessons from UFC 280—discipline, strategic execution, and the ability to capitalize on opportunities—are at the heart of everything taught at the Serra-Longo gym. Looking Ahead: The Future of Aljamain Sterling and the Serra-Longo Fight Team UFC 280 was another defining moment for Aljamain Sterling, and the future holds even greater challenges as he continues to defend his title. For Ray Longo, Matt Serra, and the entire team, the goal remains the same: to keep building champions and preparing them for the highest levels of competition. Sterling’s victory over Dillashaw was not just another title defense—it was proof that the Serra-Longo Fight Team continues to produce elite-level fighters who can adapt to any opponent and execute a perfect game plan. The team’s focus on preparation, technique, and mental toughness continues to drive their success, both in the Octagon and beyond. Join Our Team: If reading about the victories of the Serra-Longo Fight Team has inspired you, why not experience it for yourself? Whether you're a beginner or an experienced martial artist, Ray Longo's MMA Academy offers top-tier training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, Boxing, Youth Marital Arts and more . Join a community dedicated to excellence, resilience, and growth under the guidance of world-class coaches. Take the first step towards reaching your own potential—sign up for a free trial class today and train like a champion!

UFC 273: Sterling vs. Yan 2 – Redemption and Triumph for the Serra-Longo Fight Team On April 9, 2022, UFC 273 hosted one of the most anticipated rematches in bantamweight history: Aljamain Sterling vs. Petr Yan 2 for the UFC Bantamweight Championship. After the controversial ending to their first bout at UFC 259, where Sterling won the title via disqualification, this rematch was an opportunity for Sterling, representing the Serra-Longo Fight Team, to prove that he was the rightful champion. What followed was a tactical, hard-fought battle that ended with Sterling retaining his title via split decision, marking a monumental moment for Sterling and his team. The Build-Up: A Chance to Silence the Doubters Following the controversial finish to their first fight, where Petr Yan was disqualified for an illegal knee, Aljamain Sterling’s championship reign had been heavily scrutinized. Sterling, however, remained focused on proving that his place as champion was earned, not given. He underwent surgery for a lingering neck injury and returned at UFC 273 in peak physical condition, ready to show the world that he belonged at the top of the bantamweight division. For the Serra-Longo Fight Team, this was more than just another fight—it was about redemption and validation. Ray Longo and Matt Serra worked closely with Sterling to refine his game plan, emphasizing his grappling, movement, and strategic awareness to counter Yan’s powerful striking and aggressive pressure. The Fight: A Tale of Two Halves From the start, it was clear that this fight would be different from their first encounter. Sterling opened the fight with sharp footwork and smart striking, keeping Yan at bay and avoiding the early blitzes that Yan had used effectively in their first meeting. Sterling’s improved movement and strategic adjustments were evident, as he began to dictate the pace in the first two rounds. The real turning point came in the second round when Sterling secured a takedown and established control on the ground. For much of the round, Sterling maintained dominant positions, particularly back control, where he threatened with submissions and neutralized Yan’s offense. The third round followed a similar pattern, with Sterling once again showcasing his grappling superiority, taking Yan’s back and controlling him for the majority of the round. Ray Longo and Matt Serra had drilled these situations with Sterling extensively in training, focusing on his ability to maintain control and minimize Yan’s opportunities to escape. Sterling’s relentless pursuit of ground control demonstrated the Serra-Longo team’s expertise in grappling and game planning. Yan’s Resurgence and Sterling’s Resolve As the fight entered the championship rounds, Petr Yan found his rhythm. Yan began to pick up the pace in the fourth and fifth rounds, landing significant strikes and applying more pressure. Sterling, however, remained composed, using his defense and movement to avoid the heavy damage Yan was looking to deliver. The later rounds were competitive, with Yan making his case for a comeback, but Sterling’s early dominance, particularly in grappling, had already built a strong lead on the scorecards. The fight went the full five rounds, and when the final bell rang, it was clear that both fighters had left everything inside the Octagon. The Decision: A Split Verdict and a Champion Vindicated In the end, the judges awarded Aljamain Sterling the victory by split decision (48-47, 47-48, 48-47), allowing him to retain the UFC Bantamweight Championship. While the decision was close, Sterling’s grappling control in the second and third rounds proved to be the deciding factor in the eyes of the judges. For Sterling and the Serra-Longo Fight Team, UFC 273 was the validation they had been waiting for. Sterling had proven that he was not just a paper champion but a legitimate titleholder who had the skills and strategy to defeat one of the most dangerous fighters in the division. Ray Longo and Matt Serra’s game plan, which emphasized positional dominance and calculated striking, had been executed perfectly, leading to one of the most significant victories of Sterling’s career. The Legacy of UFC 273: A Champion's Journey Aljamain Sterling’s victory at UFC 273 was more than just a title defense—it was a redemption story. After months of criticism following the outcome of UFC 259, Sterling silenced the doubters and showed the world that he had earned his place as champion. The split decision win over Yan solidified Sterling’s status as one of the top fighters in the bantamweight division, and it added another chapter to the growing legacy of the Serra-Longo Fight Team. For Ray Longo and Matt Serra, this victory was a testament to the years of hard work they had invested in Sterling’s development. From grappling fundamentals to mental toughness, Sterling’s performance at UFC 273 was the culmination of the Serra-Longo team’s dedication to creating champions. Longo’s MMA Academy: Training Champions, Building Legacies At Longo’s MMA Academy, the lessons learned from UFC 273 are taught to fighters and students every day. Sterling’s victory over Yan was not just about skill—it was about discipline, perseverance, and the ability to rise to the occasion when the stakes are highest. Whether you’re an aspiring fighter or looking to improve your fitness, the principles that guided Sterling to victory are the same values instilled in everyone who trains under the Serra-Longo banner. Aljamain Sterling’s triumph at UFC 273 serves as a reminder that champions are made not just through talent but through preparation, heart, and the willingness to fight for what they’ve earned. Join Our Team: If reading about the victories of the Serra-Longo Fight Team has inspired you, why not experience it for yourself? Whether you're a beginner or an experienced martial artist, Ray Longo's MMA Academy offers top-tier training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, Boxing, Youth Marital Arts and more . Join a community dedicated to excellence, resilience, and growth under the guidance of world-class coaches. Take the first step towards reaching your own potential—sign up for a free trial class today and train like a champion!