This past weekend was huge for our competition team, both in MMA and submission grappling.
We had 3 fighters representing the Serra-Longo fight team in Atlantic City for the Ring of Combat.
Al Iaquinta defeated his opponent in only 15 seconds of the first round with a knock out. Wow! Great job Al. Keep up the great work.
Nabih Barakat won a split decision against a tough opponent. Nabih is getting better and better with each fight and we are excited to see what the future holds for him.
Anthony Abatelli also fought a tough fight but ended up losing by decision. It was a very close fight and I’m sure Anthony will learn from it and come back stronger than ever.
In submission grappling news, Chris Weidman took first place at the Abu Dhabi Combat Club trials. Chris will now be representing the U.S. in September for the ADCC world championships in Barcelona, Spain. This is a huge accomplishment and we are super proud.
The ADCC qualifiers is one of the toughest tournaments to compete in. We also commend the following fighters for competing and walking away with invaluable experience:
- Gabriel “Monsta” Toribio
- Daniel Simmler
- Josh Madama
Check out the short interview with Chris below:
Billy Hofacker (BH): How does it feel to qualify for such a prestigious tournament?
Chris Weidman (CW): Although you have to go into every tournament with the idea that you are going to win, it is still kind of unbelievable. It is more than an honor to be a representative for the U.S. especially for something that I am so passionate about and it is an incredible opportunity that I couldn't have imagined a year ago.
BH: I can only imagine. Now that you won the East Coast qualifiers, what's next?
CW: Well, in the next couple of months I will be taking my training to another level in preparation for the ADCC World Tournament. After that, I am eager to participate in whatever opportunities are presented to me.
BH: I’m sure I’m not alone in that I can’t wait to see what those opportunities are. To say that you're transitioning from wrestling to MMA to BJJ very well is an understatement. What do you attribute this to?
CW: I think that a lot of it has to do with the great work ethic and discipline that I have obtained throughout the years wrestling.
Also, having the right guidance, coaching and support is key. This not only includes my current trainers like Ray Longo, the Serra brothers and Pete Sell, but every wrestling coach I have ever had, my family, my wife, friends and most importantly God. They have all helped me to keep a positive attitude and have the confidence and the drive to accomplish great things in my opinion, so thank you!
BH: I know it's your birthday this week. Any big plans to celebrate your birthday as well as your recent victory?
CW: Actually, my wife and I are going down to Costa Rica on June 16 with two of our friends for a week. It's a big birthday for me, 25! So yea I guess they are kind of big plans and it's nice that I can celebrate a birthday and a big win and eat!
BH: Sounds like fun Chris. Happy B-day and I speak for everyone at Serra BJJ when I say CONGRATS!
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