The UFC bantamweight division has always been a shark tank of brilliant competitors clawing their way to the top. For years, Merab Dvalishvili worked tirelessly, defeating one tough opponent after another. Now that he has finally won the crown, ‘The Machine’ is not pleased with who is knocking on his door first. But the UFC doesn’t care what he loves or dislikes. They believe Umar Nurmagomedov is the top contender.
It is who he will face at UFC 311. Merab Dvalishvili will defend his title against undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311 on January 18 in Inglewood, California. Dvalishvili, known for his intense grappling and unmatched cardio, is preparing to change his style for this high-stakes match. He recently revealed the severity of an arm injury he sustained late last year, which nearly wrecked his ambitions to continue competing in the UFC.
Nurmagomedov spoke with ESPN MMA and the official UFC YouTube channel on his decision to fight before Ramadan, despite warnings from his management. Nurmagomedov sustained an arm fracture during training in Dagestan. He persevered in maintaining his fitness by running, shadowboxing, and grappling. After 20 days, his condition improved enough for him to contact his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, and request to return to action.
Merab Dvalishvili Warns Umar Nurmagomedov
On the Believe You Me podcast with Michael Bisping, Dvalishvili expressed optimism in defeating Nurmagomedov’s spotless record. He said I’m going to show Georgian wrestling and Georgian toughness. I’m going to break the guy. It’s going to be a great fight… As long as I’m healthy, I’m good, and I will be fine. It’s going to be a great fight… I’m excited to fight a good fighter like Umar. He’s undefeated, and I’m going to change his record.
Despite his grappling expertise, Dvalishvili suggested a striking-focused plan to outmaneuver Nurmagomedov, “I’m ready for striking. I’m not looking to take him down, control him, and lay on top like O’Malley. I’m going to punch his face, kick his legs, keep [the fight] on the feet, and I’m going to show a good fight. It’s going to be a great fight. A lot of scrapping, a lot of exchanges. I believe it’s going to be Fight of the Night or something.
