Merab Dvalishvili is growing in confidence with each fight. After dominating Sean O’Malley to win the championship, Dvalishvili faced Umar Nurmagomedov. While it was being termed the most difficult matchup for the Georgian, Dvalishvili put on a resilient show to thwart the danger. However, with the UFC bantamweight champion getting ready for another title defense, he has dropped a surprising update.
Dvalishvili stated that he was fully aware of the threat that Umar Nurmagomedov brought to the table. But while he did acknowledge his fighting prowess, Dvalishvili stated that he never felt threatened. In fact, Nurmagomedov seemed like any other sparring partner for the Georgian.
“I knew how good and dangerous Umar was. But I was ready for this challenge… I didn’t feel any danger. I felt he was just another fighter, another sparring partner,” Dvalishvili stated.
Merab Dvalishvili says he felt no danger in the Umar Nurmagomedov fight:
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) June 1, 2025
"I knew how good and dangerous Umar was. But I was ready for this challenge…
I didn't feel any danger. I felt he was just another fighter, another sparring partner."
(via. @ufc) #UFC316 pic.twitter.com/4NRAQudA3k
Surely, the match was an absolute banger. In the initial couple of rounds, it looked like Dvalishvili was having a hard time. But as the rounds progressed, Dvalishvili returned to his elements and ensured his victory. Meanwhile, with the rematch with Sean O’Malley approaching, Dvalishvili is looking to opt for a striking showdown.
Merab Dvalishvili Hints At Boxing Sean O’Malley
Last time the duo met, it was a grappling masterclass from Dvalishvili. Dominating O’Malley on the ground throughout the bout, the Georgian earned significant praise for his performance. Now, in their second faceoff, Dvalishvili is looking to take things up a notch. In an interview with Kevin Iole, Dvalishvili pointed out that he is ready to adapt. The bantamweight champion stated that if his takedowns become ineffective, he will be ready to engage in a striking contest with ‘Suga.’
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“He[Sean] stopped my takedowns, and if he stops my takedowns now, I’m planning to strike with him and challenge my striking with another top opponent. I’m ready for a very strong Sean O’Malley, and I’m also looking for a finish in this fight,” Dvalishvili said.
Merab Dvalishvili reveals he's planning to strike with Sean O'Malley if his takedowns are stopped. 💥
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) May 28, 2025
"He[Sean] stopped my takedowns, and if he stops my takedowns now, I'm planning to strike with him and challenge my striking with another top opponent. I'm ready for a very… pic.twitter.com/N2E3ipbD4h
Thus, with just days to go before the bout, what happens next remains to be seen.
Also Read: Sean O’Malley Oozes Confidence As He Vows To ‘Break’ Merab Dvalishvili
