The Ultimate Fighter 22, Episode 4 Notes: The Coaching Criticisms Continue

During last week’s episode of The Ultimate Fighter: Team McGregor vs. Team Faber, UFC president Dana White revealed that European coach Conor McGregor only shows up for evening practices while skipping out on the morning sessions.

After winning the first two fights, American coach Urijah Faber questioned McGregor’s coaching techniques. In the locker room, McGregor ridiculed his fighter in front of the team.

“I gave Conor a little advice to maybe show up and give these guys his full effort if he’s going to get so invested and pissed off at them,” said Faber.

“I think it’s poor character on Conor’s part,” said Team Faber’s Chris Gruetzemacher. “Sometimes you shouldn’t kick a dog when he’s down. At some point you’re just being a dick to be a dick.”

McGregor later expressed regret for his actions during and after the fight.

Two Different Coaching Styles

The thing that prominently stands out thus far in the season is how opposite the opposing coaches are. Faber is from California. He’s tan and dresses casually, sporting sandals and board shorts while McGregor hails from Dublin, Ireland. He’s pale and prides himself in his wardrobe of tailored suits and exotic shoes. Their differences don’t stop with their appearances. They way they approach fighting and coaching are on opposite ends of the spectrum.

“It’s interesting seeing these two different styles of coaching,” said Dana White. “Urijah Faber, it’s all about the team, and all of his success has come from Team Alpha Male. It’s what he knows. Conor, his style is all about the individual, and so far it’s not really working out for Team Europe right now.”

The Fight: Marcin Wrzosek (10-2) vs. Tom Gallicchio (19-8)

Team Faber’s Tom Gallicchio requested a matchup against Team McGregor’s Marcin Wrzosek, and the coaching staff granted his request.

It was a classic matchup of opposing styles.  Gallicchio comes from a grappling background and wanted to get the fight to the ground while Wrzosek is known for his boxing.  Wrzosek proved to be the faster fighter, moving in and out with combinations.  Gallicchio caught a kick and secured a takedown a minute into the opening round.  He was able to take Wrzosek’s back and fought to maintain the position for nearly three minutes.  Wrzosek shook off the American and connected with clean shots.  Gallicchio ducked under punches and took Wrzosek to the ground.  He advanced to the mount position, but was reversed in the in the closing seconds of the round.

“His legs are done,” Coach McGregor repeatedly said following the opening stanza.

Gallicchio was able to take Wrzosek down early in the second frame.  He mounted the European, but Wrzosek reversed the position.  While on top, Wrzosek delivered a steady dose of punches.  Gallicchio scrambled back to his feet, but fatigue had set in.  Wrzosek dominated the second half of the round to earn a unanimous decision victory and the first win for Team McGregor.

Next Bout Announcement

With matchmaking control in hand, Coach McGregor selected Sal Rogers to take on Team Faber’s Billy Quarantillo.

“Conor has basically been saying with the right match-ups Team Europe will destroy Team USA.  Conor is now in position to do this.  He has control,” said White.