Merab Dvalishvili, reigning UFC bantamweight champion, indicated that Umar Nurmagomedov will likely need to accumulate two or three more victories before securing a rematch for the 135-pound title. This statement comes after Dvalishvili successfully defended his belt against Nurmagomedov, who entered the fight undefeated at 18-0. The Georgian fighter emphasized that Nurmagomedov’s next shot at the title depends on building momentum with additional wins.
Umar Nurmagomedov, who challenged for the title earlier, expressed determination to reclaim the championship regardless of facing Dvalishvili directly. In a recent interview on the ‘Hustle’ Vlog, Nurmagomedov acknowledged setbacks but remained focused on the goal of becoming champion, willing to work hard for his opportunity. Meanwhile, Dvalishvili, known as “The Machine,” echoed this outlook by pointing out the need for both fighters to compile impressive winning streaks to justify title fights.
Merab Dvalishvili’s Perspective on Umar Nurmagomedov’s Title Path
Dvalishvili, trained at Syndicate MMA and the Serra-Longo team based in Las Vegas, stressed that a rematch between him and Nurmagomedov is not imminent. During a UFC Baku pre-fight Q&A, Dvalishvili suggested that Nurmagomedov must first prove himself with a couple of solid wins before getting another title opportunity.
“Or maybe two more… Maybe three more… We’ll see. Whenever UFC will give him a title fight, I’m here,”
Dvalishvili stated.
In their first title encounter, Dvalishvili outpaced Nurmagomedov through relentless pressure, winning by unanimous decision with scores of 48-47, 49-46, and 48-47. Despite the victory, Dvalishvili described the defense as relatively straightforward, likening it to a sparring session. Still, Nurmagomedov, who is 29, has room to grow and could reshape perceptions if he wins convincingly in his upcoming bouts.
Dvalishvili has also indicated his current focus is on defending his belt against Cory Sandhagen, the No. 4-ranked bantamweight contender, with whom he has agreed verbally to fight next. Sandhagen represents a significant challenge in the division, while Dvalishvili has shown interest in past potential matchups, including with Petr Yan. Nurmagomedov remains a worthy contender but will need to build his record further before reentering title contention. UFC President Dana White has acknowledged Nurmagomedov’s prospects, mentioning him as a fighter to watch during UFC 316’s post-fight press conference.
Background on the UFC Bantamweight Landscape and Rivalries
Before ascending to the bantamweight throne, Dvalishvili had to navigate a division that included notable fighters such as Aljamain Sterling, a teammate and longtime contender. Sterling, once the bantamweight champion, transitioned to featherweight after losing the belt at UFC 292 to Sean O’Malley, where he currently holds a 1-1 record. The dynamic between Dvalishvili and Sterling was often spotlighted, with UFC fans and officials urging a fight between the two friends when both were contenders.
Merab Dvalishvili rose steadily in the ranks, highlighted by his back-to-back victories over Sean O’Malley, the latter a third-round submission via neck crank at UFC 316. His rise culminated in capturing the bantamweight title and defending it successfully against Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311. This streak now totals 13 consecutive wins, underlining Dvalishvili’s consistency and endurance in the division.
TJ Dillashaw’s Suggestion for an Explosive Bantamweight Matchup
Former bantamweight champion TJ Dillashaw recently voiced his views on a potential fight between Merab Dvalishvili and Aljamain Sterling. On the ‘JAXXON’ podcast, Dillashaw called for the two fighters, despite their friendship, to face each other because of the financial rewards and competitive narrative it would present.
I want to see Merab and Sterling fight…They could make so much money. I understand [they’re best friends] but you’re getting paid…who gives a sh*t— [Aljo] should come back down… You’re here to get paid, I don’t know, I think it’d be an awesome story.
—TJ Dillashaw on the ‘JAXXON’ Podcast: UFC 316 Recap
Dillashaw emphasized Sterling’s wrestling prowess as a unique challenge to Dvalishvili’s powerful cardio and pace, which have often overwhelmed opponents in the 135-pound division. While such a matchup between close friends is presently improbable, it could deliver an exciting, high-stakes fight that captivates the UFC audience.
The Road Ahead for Nurmagomedov and Dvalishvili
Looking forward, Umar Nurmagomedov must demonstrate his readiness for another title bout by stringing together victories and proving his skills at the highest level. Meanwhile, Merab Dvalishvili is concentrating on defending his championship against contenders like Cory Sandhagen, solidifying his reign atop the bantamweight division.
Dvalishvili’s comments underline the competitive and meritocratic nature of title shots in the UFC, where fighters must consistently earn their chances through performance. For Nurmagomedov, the path involves resilience and steady progress to reclaim his position at the top, while Dvalishvili’s reign represents a significant challenge for anyone aiming to unseat him.