​ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) – Former UFC Welterweight Champion and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Matt “The Terror” Serra traveled to Odessa to lead a seminar for Permian Basin students at Vagabond Gym. Serra has reached the pinnacle of both mixed martial arts and jiu-jitsu, and even after retiring from competition, he continues to run his own Long Island gym and to tour the country sharing his expertise with aspiring fighters and practitioners.
Guided by his motto, “Make good people dangerous,” Serra’s seminars emphasize more than just technique; they aim to instill confidence, discipline, and a deep understanding of the sport. His mission is clear as he visits local gyms to spread knowledge and inspire athletes of all levels.
For Vagabond Gym owner Joshua Olliff, bringing a high-caliber figure like Serra to Odessa is a privilege and a substantial benefit for the community. “To see somebody like Matt Serra, to learn from him, you would typically have to travel to a major city,” Olliff said. “We’ve worked to bring in instructors of his caliber here so our community doesn’t have to leave town to gain that knowledge.” Olliff notes that the values common in West Texas—hard work, resilience, and grit—mirror the spirit found in jiu-jitsu, making the Permian Basin a natural fit for Serra’s teaching style and philosophy.
“Jiu-Jitsu helps you discover who you really are,” said student David Hernandez. “Ultimately, you have to know the techniques and stay true to yourself. On the mat, you can’t fake it. You have to be 100% authentic, and you can’t run from that. It’s a powerful place to learn about yourself.”
If you’re interested in joining Vagabond Gym’s classes, you can find more information on their website. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, visit Yourbasin.