Matt Serra has a deep-rooted connection with Merab Dvalishvili, having trained him upon his arrival in the United States, even before Dvalishvili was fluent in English. This bond ensures Serra’s unwavering support, especially when Dvalishvili faces conflict with opponents or their coaching staff.
This loyalty was particularly evident after an incident involving Sean O’Malley and his head coach, Tim Welch. Prior to Dvalishvili’s UFC 306 championship victory, a heated exchange occurred between him and the opposition duo, stemming from Welch’s controversial tactics during a previous title fight with Aljamain Sterling.
While cornering O’Malley, the trainer had attempted to disrupt Sterling by shouting instructions at him.
Although “Funk Master” dismissed any impact from Welch’s actions, the coach repeated his disruptive behavior during Sean O’Malley’s fight against Dvalishvili, prompting a warning from the referee.
This situation deeply resonated with Serra, who, with his extensive experience as both a fighter and a coach, strongly disapproved of Welch’s approach.
“I’m not a fan of that guy (Welch) because when they were fighting, he does some dirty f*cking, c*nty sh*t,” Serra said during the Overdogs podcast. “He’s the guy (shouting from the corner), ‘Aljo, you’ve got to go, you’ve got (to go)!’
“It might not be against the rules, but you’re being a little b*tch right now. I’m just letting you know. I’m not going to go, ‘Sean O’Malley, you’ve got to (go)!’“
Serra’s disapproval extended beyond the personal conflict. He strongly condemned Welch’s use of his cornerman position to shout instructions at opponents. Serra believes this tactic inappropriately inserts coaches into the fight. It’s a practice he considers unacceptable.
