Petr Yan advanced his position for a potential rematch against Merab Dvalishvili with a solid performance at UFC Abu Dhabi on July 26. Yan’s win over Marcus McGhee in the co-main event at the Etihad Arena helped extend his winning streak to three and reinforced his status as a top contender in the bantamweight division.
Competing just before the main event where Robert Whittaker lost to Reinier de Ridder, Yan had his title shot hopes on the line against McGhee, a fighter ranked outside the top 10. Yan’s successful effort kept his momentum going and increased anticipation for a future clash with Dvalishvili, the reigning champion who handed him his last defeat.
Merab Dvalishvili Offers Respectful Congratulations Following Yan’s Win
Despite focusing on his own upcoming bouts, Merab Dvalishvili acknowledged Yan’s Abu Dhabi victory thoughtfully. The Georgian contender, known as ‘The Machine,’ had previously defeated Yan decisively in their Las Vegas main event over two years ago. Rather than dismissing the possibility of another meeting, Dvalishvili has openly welcomed the idea of a rematch in the past and continued that stance following Yan’s recent triumph.
Petr Yan Responds to Dvalishvili with Sportsmanship and Rematch Interest
Yan quickly noticed Dvalishvili’s congratulatory message and responded in kind, wishing his former opponent luck in his future fight. Yan, known as ‘No Mercy,’ is rumored as a possible challenger for Dvalishvili’s next title defense, though ‘The Machine’ will next face Cory Sandhagen at UFC 320 on October 14. Yan expressed hope for a renewed title bout with Dvalishvili if he overcomes Sandhagen’s challenge.
Thanks Merab, good luck in your next fight,
Yan wrote on X.
Hopefully it’s me and you for the belt after.
—Petr Yan, UFC Fighter
Implications for the Bantamweight Title Picture and Future UFC Matchups
This exchange between Merab Dvalishvili and Petr Yan highlights the growing anticipation for what could become a high-stakes rematch in the bantamweight division. With Dvalishvili preparing to defend his title against Sandhagen, and Yan maintaining winning form, the path to a potential showdown between these two competitive fighters remains a key storyline. Their respectful interactions also illustrate the professional sportsmanship underpinning UFC’s top-level competition.
The outcome of UFC 320 will likely shape whether the Merab Dvalishvili Petr Yan rematch moves from speculation to the octagon, making the upcoming months especially significant for fans and fighters alike.