Aljamain Sterling and Merab Dvalishvili have shared more than the bantamweight spotlight since joining Serra-Longo MMA in New York. Their paths crossed early in Sterling’s career, when he sought out Matt Serra’s gym for guidance. Dvalishvili arrived later, and their regular sparring sessions forged a partnership that has become integral to both men’s development.
Aljamain Sterling and Merab Dvalishvili
That friendship has shaped decisions that would seem unusual in a results-driven sport. When Dvalishvili claimed a high-profile victory over José Aldo, positioning himself as the No. 1 contender, he and Sterling declined any suggestion of an intra-team title fight.