Matt Serra is the first North American to earn a black belt from Renzo Gracie, a silver medal winner at ADCC, and a former UFC Welterweight champion. That said, many dismiss his accomplishments and attempt to tarnish his legacy.
It appears that the disrespect of Serra is tied to the desire to besmirch St. Pierre, since St. Pierre's loss to Serra is his most memorable defeat.
I've always thought the "epic upset" label for that fight was unjust to Serra. In an era when Hughes, Penn, and St. Pierre were all considered, at one time or another, the pound for pound best, only Serra could argue he has wins over all 3. Serra's losses to Penn and Hughes were controversial. Many thought, at the time, that the Penn-Serra fight was a perfect draw.
Even without wishing to re-write scorecards, it's safe to say that Serra fought Penn, Hughes, and St. Pierre and gave all 3 hell.
I really hope he begins to be recognized as a deserving champ. The UFC should recognize him in the Hall of Fame.
It appears that the disrespect of Serra is tied to the desire to besmirch St. Pierre, since St. Pierre's loss to Serra is his most memorable defeat.
I've always thought the "epic upset" label for that fight was unjust to Serra. In an era when Hughes, Penn, and St. Pierre were all considered, at one time or another, the pound for pound best, only Serra could argue he has wins over all 3. Serra's losses to Penn and Hughes were controversial. Many thought, at the time, that the Penn-Serra fight was a perfect draw.
Even without wishing to re-write scorecards, it's safe to say that Serra fought Penn, Hughes, and St. Pierre and gave all 3 hell.
I really hope he begins to be recognized as a deserving champ. The UFC should recognize him in the Hall of Fame.