Discover the unforgettable upsets in MMA history with Matt Serra and Chris Weidman’s triumphs. Learn about their underdog stories, shared coach, and the impact of Ray Longo.
| Topic | Summary |
|---|---|
| Matt Serra’s upset win over Georges St-Pierre | Matt Serra’s knockout victory over Georges St-Pierre to capture the UFC Welterweight Championship is considered one of the biggest upsets in MMA history. |
| Chris Weidman breaking Anderson Silva’s winning streak | Chris Weidman’s knockout win over Anderson Silva, ending Silva’s 17-fight winning streak, is another remarkable upset in the UFC Middleweight division. |
| Ray Longo’s influence and coaching career | Ray Longo, a legendary coach and pioneer in mixed martial arts, played a crucial role in shaping the careers of both Serra and Weidman. |
| The Serra-Longo Fight Team | Longo is one of the owners and trainers of the Serra-Longo Fight Team, which operates two gyms and has become a sought-after training spot for MMA fighters. |
| Longo’s humble nature and impact on his family | Despite his success, Longo remains humble and finds joy in uplifting those around him, especially his family. |
| Longo’s legacy and inspiration | Ray Longo’s dedication to martial arts and his ability to bring people together through fighting and music have made him a respected figure in the MMA community. |
Despite unfolding nearly 17 years ago, Matt Serra’s knockout win over Georges St-Pierre to capture the UFC Welterweight Championship is still regarded by most mixed martial arts fans as one of the biggest upsets in the sport’s history. Similarly, six years later, Chris Weidman broke Anderson Silva’s 17-fight winning streak — also by knockout fashion — to win the UFC Middleweight title. Serra and Weidman’s triumphs share many similarities, making them unforgettable moments in MMA.
Underdogs with a Common Ground
Both Serra and Weidman entered their respective bouts as heavy underdogs. Despite the odds stacked against them, they defied expectations and emerged victorious. What makes their victories even more remarkable is the fact that both fighters hail from Long Island, adding a local flavor to their remarkable achievements.
Guided by a Legendary Coach
Another common thread between Serra and Weidman is their coach, Ray Longo. Considered a pioneer of mixed martial arts and one of the greatest coaches in the sport’s history, Longo played a crucial role in shaping the careers of both fighters. Originally from Queens, Longo pursued a career in accounting after graduating from St. John’s University. However, his passion for martial arts led him to balance his work as an accountant with training fighters in boxing, kickboxing, and MMA. Eventually, he made the decision to devote all his time to martial arts, which proved to be a game-changing choice.
The Serra-Longo Fight Team
Longo is now one of the owners and trainers of the Serra-Longo Fight Team, which operates two gyms: Longo-Weidman MMA in Garden City and Serra BJJ Academy in Huntington. The team, formed decades ago by Longo and Serra, has become a sought-after training spot for mixed martial artists. While it initially featured predominantly Long Island natives, it has now attracted fighters from diverse backgrounds, reflecting Longo’s belief in the unifying power of combat sports.
A Humble Mentor
Despite his success and public appearances through podcasts and interviews, Longo is not one to seek attention. Instead, he finds joy in uplifting those around him. He cherishes moments when people recognize him or his accomplishments, especially when it comes to his family. Longo’s children have experienced instances where someone realizes their father’s connection to the MMA world, which fills him with pride and happiness.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Ray Longo’s impact extends beyond the octagon. His dedication to martial arts and his ability to bring people together through fighting and music have made him a respected figure in the MMA community. His story serves as a reminder to follow one’s passion and find fulfillment in doing what one loves.
Alex Pinsky Streinger is a reporter with The SBU Media Group, part of Stony Brook University’s School of Communication and Journalism’s Working Newsroom program for students and local media.
