Matt Serra

Biography

Matt Serra is an American Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, ADCC veteran, and one of the most influential figures in modern American grappling. He is historically significant as the first American to earn a black belt under Renzo Gracie, helping pioneer high-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and no-gi competition in the United States.

Before becoming widely known for his mixed martial arts career, Matt Serra established himself as an elite no-gi competitor. He represented the United States at the ADCC World Championships, earning a silver medal in the 66kg division in 2001 after a standout performance that included wins over top international grapplers.

Matt Serra later transitioned to professional mixed martial arts, where he became the UFC Welterweight Champion after one of the biggest upsets in MMA history—a first-round knockout victory over Georges St-Pierre in 2007. Despite his MMA success, Serra has remained deeply connected to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, co-founding Serra BJJ and the Serra-Longo Fight Team in New York, where he has produced numerous high-level grapplers and UFC fighters.

Matt Serra’s legacy in no-gi grappling is defined by technical mastery, historic competitive results, and his role in shaping the earliest generation of American black belts who helped spread Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu throughout the United States.

Personal

* Legend status is reserved for retired athletes with outstanding achievements and a lasting impact on the sport.

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