What’s Next For Merab Dvalishvili?

Merab Dvalishvili lost his UFC Bantamweight Title against Petr Yan in a unanimous decision (49-46, 49-46, and 48-47) at UFC 323, as we look at what is next for him.

Merab entered the contest riding a spectacular 14-fight win streak, built almost entirely on his record-setting pace and takedown ability. However, Yan successfully stopped an astonishing 22 out of 24 takedown attempts by Dvalishvili. This near-perfect takedown defense frustrated “The Machine” from the opening bell and forced him into a stand-up fight. The loss prevented Merab from setting a new division record of four successful title defenses in a single calendar year. For Yan, the win is a triumphant return to the top, cementing his legacy as one of the Bantamweight division’s best champions.

Merab’s Future

Dvalishvili’s immediate future could involve a trilogy bout against Yan. The history between the two fighters, now tied at one win apiece, provides a compelling narrative for the UFC. Dvalishvili himself immediately called for the rematch. The UFC often grants immediate rematches to champions who have been consistently dominant, especially in close-knit rivalries. While Yan’s performance was master-class, the UFC could market a third fight as the true decider for the generation’s top 135-pounder. However, it also depends on whether Yan wants the fight.

“I think Merab should really just get into the Jacuzzi, think about it, and then we’ll see. You saw the fight of Merab vs. Umar [Nurmagomedov]. You saw the way that fight went. So, who’s more dangerous? They can rematch, and then we can see what happens,” Yan said

Another option would be another fight against Umar Nurmagomedov. Umar presents a world-class grappling threat and an undefeated record outside of that one blemish. A win over Umar would emphatically re-establish Dvalishvili as the undisputed top contender. Regardless of the opponent, Dvalishvili will remain a major threat in the bantamweight division.