Merab Dvalishvili retained his bantamweight title with a hard-fought unanimous decision victory over previously undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311. The champion’s relentless pace and pressure proved too much for Nurmagomedov, as Dvalishvili outlasted his opponent in a grueling five-round battle. With his title defense secured, attention now shifts to his next challenge in the stacked bantamweight division.

What’s Next for Merab Dvalishvili?

The Georgian champion has solidified his status as one of the most dominant fighters in the bantamweight division. With his victory over Nurmagomedov, the logical next opponent for Dvalishvili could be former champion Petr Yan, who has recently rebounded with consecutive wins and remains a top contender.

Merab Dvalishvili vs. Petr Yan II: A Grudge Match with Title Implications

Fans have been eager for a rematch between Dvalishvili and Yan ever since their first fight at UFC Fight Night in March 2023. Dvalishvili’s dominant unanimous decision victory over Yan showcased his relentless pressure and grappling, but Yan has since regrouped, securing wins over Song Yadong and Deiveson Figueiredo.

A second bout between Dvalishvili and Yan promises to be a thrilling contest. Dvalishvili will aim to maintain his high pace and wrestling dominance, while Yan’s improved striking and takedown defense will be key to turning the tide. This rematch not only settles unfinished business but also serves as a critical chapter in the division’s history.

With both fighters at the top of their game, this fight has all the makings of an instant classic. Will Dvalishvili continue his reign, or can Yan reclaim the gold?

Merab Dvalishvili: Last 5 Fights

1. Win vs. Umar Nurmagomedov – Decision (unanimous) at UFC 311 (Jan 18, 2025)
* Relentless pressure secured a unanimous decision win in a Fight of the Night performance.
2. Win vs. Sean O'Malley – Decision (unanimous) at UFC 306 (Sep 14, 2024)
* Captured the bantamweight title with a dominant performance.
3. Win vs. Henry Cejudo – Decision (unanimous) at UFC 298 (Feb 17, 2024)
* Outpaced the former double champ in a tactical showdown.
4. Win vs. Petr Yan – Decision (unanimous) at UFC Fight Night (Mar 11, 2023)
* Smothered Yan with relentless grappling and pressure.
5. Win vs. José Aldo – Decision (unanimous) at UFC 278 (Aug 20, 2022)
* Neutralized Aldo’s offense with effective clinch work.

Petr Yan: Last 5 Fights

1. Win vs. Deiveson Figueiredo – Decision (unanimous) at UFC Fight Night (Nov 23, 2024)
* Displayed crisp striking to outpoint the former flyweight champion.
2. Win vs. Song Yadong – Decision (unanimous) at UFC 299 (Mar 9, 2024)
* Used precise striking and control to earn a clear victory.
3. Loss vs. Merab Dvalishvili – Decision (unanimous) at UFC Fight Night (Mar 11, 2023)
* Struggled against Dvalishvili’s relentless pace and wrestling.
4. Loss vs. Sean O'Malley – Decision (split) at UFC 280 (Oct 22, 2022)
* A closely contested striking battle ended in a controversial decision.
5. Loss vs. Aljamain Sterling – Decision (split) at UFC 273 (Apr 9, 2022)
* Came up short in his bid to reclaim the bantamweight title.