Prior to each UFC card, Jay Primetown takes a close look at debuting fighters. In the latest installment, we look at Colombia’s Fredy Serrano as he takes on Bolivia’s Bentley Syler at UFC Fight Night 62. Fredy “El Profe” Serrano Hometown: Bogota, Colombia Age: 35 Height: 5’5” Weightclass: Flyweight Camp: Octagon MMA Career Record: 1-0 Key Wins: None Key Losses: None Background One of the few Colombians to compete in MMA, Serrano is a highly decorated wrestler in his home country. Serrano was a 2008 Olympian competing for his native Colombia in the Beijing games. While he has strong wrestling credentials, his MMA background is still rather limited with just one professional fight on his record. Strengths
- Athletic and strong fighter for the weight class
- Good overhand right
- Olympic caliber wrestler
- Solid grappling
- Heavy top control
Weaknesses
- Lack of Octagon experience
- Holds hands low
- Too willing to back up against the cage and let opponent strike first
- Leaves himself open to submission attempts in top control
- Conditioning is a concern later in fight
Matchup with Bentley Syler The opening matchup of Fight Night 62 is a rare bout in Brazil that does not feature at least one Brazilian as Colombia’s Fredy Serrano takes on Bolivia’s Bentley Syler. Both of these guys were on the first season of TUF Latin America. Syler is the more seasoned MMA fighter having trained at American Top Team and has amassed five pro fights in his career. Meanwhile, Serrano is 35 years of age and only has one professional fight. From the looks of it, both are pretty green overall. Syler is the more well balanced fighter with some ability to strike plus the ability to work in submissions. His footwork and conditioning could cause problems for Serrano. On the flip side, Serrano is a very good athlete with a strong wrestling background. While Serrano may have to chase Syler a bit, he should have little trouble putting Syler on his back. I expect the Colombian to be in top control for the majority of the fight which should allow him to get a decision victory. As both of these fighters have little professional experience, so there could be significant improvements in their UFC debuts. Due to these factors, it’s wise to pass on betting this fight. UFC Ceiling Fredy Serrano is another in the line of high level international wrestlers to transition to MMA. His athleticism will allow him to compete even at his age in the sport. Unfortunately, the tools needed to learn how to strike in MMA are generally learned at an earlier age. There will be times when Serrano can control fights from top control, but he will struggle other times as he lacks the volume striking necessary to win rounds on the feet. At 35, he’s simply too raw to develop a high level career in the UFC. Fight Film Check out Fredy Serrano in his professional debut: Fredy Serrano vs. Andres Ayala