Abu Dahbi: why the hell are Renzo and Serra fighting in the same weight class

[Americana]

As we all know, Serra is a Renzo black belt. It turns out they're both in the same weight class at Abu Dahbi: look for Serra to have to forfeit if they are to face each other. Renzo should have some class and step aside and let Serra have his chance.

In most sports, good friends, even brothers, would compete, that's the American way. Think of wrestling, tennis, etc. But Serra will not fight Renzo. One of them should just get out.

[EJ]

...so that when they face eachother, they can rig the match just like Feitosa and Gracie did last year.

Actually, there is no guarantee that they will even face eachother.

[edro]

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[bobby_steeles]

if me and my brother faced each other in a tournament, we would probably do the same thing. but when we face eachother in the living room, it's all hell breaking loose!

[What's inside a girl?]

Because they're the same weight??? Durrrr.

[Americana]

They not only will not necessarily fight, they will not "fight" under any circumstance. To me, this really ruins the division.

I'm also surprised that Renzo doesn't just pull out and let Serra have his chance. Serra's got to be in his late twenties and he's still not in the big leagues. In fact, I believe he did not fight in Pride so that he could fight in Abu Dahbi. Now unless Renzo loses early, he's basiclly out.

Sometimes a bird has to leave the nest to make the most of his own career. Look at Frank Shamrock. He didn't want to be in Ken's shadow and he made the most of it. Until Renzo retires and becomes a full time trainer/promoter, Serra will be in his shadow. Teaching classes, mopping up the floors and bathrooms, etc.

[What's inside a girl?]

Are you saying that Renzo is milking Serra? If yes, you're probably right, but bear in mind, Renzo has given a lot to Matt. I guess Renzo thinks it's payback time- there's no free lunch in this business.

[Americana]

Serra has either got what it takes at this point to succeed at the top or he doesn't. More jiu jitsu lessons from Renzo are not going to change that.

Serra joined with Renzo (actually Renzo/Kukuk)back at the height of the Royce/gjj hysteria. gjj was the only true path to fighting success. Alot has changed since then. Being a bjj black belt really doesn't mean that much any more.

With few exceptions, fighters have a very limited number of prime years. Particularly with the limited money available in the sport, I hate to see a talented guy wasting his prime.

Serra worked hard to get his shot in Abu Dahbi and as I said gave up a Pride birth. Renzo should do the class thing and step aside. He's had his moments in the sun.