Khalil Rountree Jr reacts to Merab Dvalishvili’s shocking pre-UFC 320 actions

According to Rountree Jr, Dvalishvili did not just show up for his UFC 320 title defence – he put in a full five-round sparring session earlier the same day.

The 35-year-old shared the story during an appearance on the JAXXON podcast.

“At 12 o’clock in the afternoon on fight day, Saturday, October 4th, Merab sparred five rounds in the cage. Live on the day of his fight, because that’s just who he is.

“Five full live rounds at 12 o’clock, not even half a day before he had to be in the arena to put on the biggest fight of his career. That’s just him. You cannot make it up.

“So, to be around that, it’s just another experience. Most guys will sit in the hotel room or try to collect their thoughts, or maybe even get a bike ride in on the assault bike to burn some energy.

“I’ve never in my life seen somebody spar five full rounds the day they have to fight and go another five full rounds with Cory Sandhagen. Yeah, he’s a different breed.”

Merab Dvalishvili eyes December title defence

After successfully defending his title at UFC 320, Dvalishvili wasted no time in calling for a rematch with Petr Yan.

‘The Machine’ had previously beaten Yan over five rounds in March 2023, but since then, the former champion has put together an impressive run of three straight victories.

“I think Petr Yan looked good and he’s ready.

“Like I keep saying, I wanna be busy. And Hunter Campbell, please, and Dana White, if you have a spot [in] December, I would love to make a quick turnaround.

“If not, then I’m gonna keep getting better, and then somebody is in big trouble.”

Yan responded on social media soon after hearing the challenge from the champion.

“Good effort from Cory, but Merab was better,” Yan posted on X.

“Can’t wait to test him next.”