Merab "The Machine" Dvalishvili UFC Career Recap Record 12-2 He faces Sean O'Malley at UFC 316 (Part -2)
25 September 2021 UFC 266 Bonkers fight against Marlon Moraes Merab is nearly finished in Rd 1, but secures a clinch and proceeds to break Marlon. Wins via Rd 2 TKO
20 August 2022 UFC 278 Merab secures the best win of his career by defeating José Aldo via UD. (29–28, 29–28, 30–27) Not a very good fight, but Merab did what he needed to against a tough opponent.
March 11, 2023 UFC Fight Night: Yan vs. Dvalishvili Takes on former champion, Petr Yan, many thought this would be a roadblock or at least a test. Merab drowned Yan in offence, making a pound-for-pound fighter look impotent. Won via UD (50–45, 50–45, 50–45)
Ordinarily, such a performance would lead to a title shot. However, the current champion was Aljamain Sterling, his long-time training partner & friend. Merab put his friendship before his career and did not pursue a title fight until Aljo lost the belt.
February 17, 2024 UFC 298 Aljo lost the title to Suga in August 2023. However, Chito got an undeserved shot Merab took on former champion Herny Cejudo. Got buzzed early but went on to outwrestle the Olympian. Winning via UD (29–28, 29–28, 29–28)
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September 14, 2024 UFC 306 Finally gets his title shot vs Sean O'Malley. Has no trouble establishing his wrestling; however not as dominant as in his prior performances. O'Malley does good body work later Won via UD (49–46, 48–47, 48–47) to become champion
September 14, 2024 UFC 306 Finally gets his title shot vs Sean O'Malley. Has no trouble establishing his wrestling; however not as dominant as in his prior performances. O'Malley does good body work later Won via UD (49–46, 48–47, 48–47) to become champion
January 18, 2025 UFC 311 Merab takes on the next big thing at 135, Umar Nurmagomedov. Came in at +225. Umar does well early striking, but Merab mixes up wrestling and pushes the pace to take the later half. Won via UD (48–47, 48–47, 49–46)