Merab Dvalishvili
21-5-0
About
A UFC bantamweight champion and relentless cardio machine whose pace and wrestling overwhelm everyone in front of him.
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Merab 'The Machine' Dvalishvili earned his nickname with a gas tank that seems to have no bottom. The Georgian rose through the bantamweight ranks on a long winning streak, drowning opponents in chain wrestling, scrambles and relentless volume over five rounds - a pace almost no one in the sport can match.
He beat the division's very best to claim and defend the title, including two wins over Sean O'Malley and victories over Cory Sandhagen, Henry Cejudo, Petr Yan and Jose Aldo. His grinding, takedown-heavy style isn't for every fan - some wish it produced more finishes - but its effectiveness is undeniable. A recent decision loss to Petr Yan interrupted his run at the top.
For newcomers, Merab is a study in conditioning and pressure, plus one of the sport's most likable personalities. Watching opponents fade against his relentless pace is a spectacle all its own.
Why fans love Dvalishvili
Inhuman cardio, an infectious, joyful personality, and a grinding style that makes him nearly impossible to keep up with.
Why some fans hate Dvalishvili
His takedown-heavy, decision-leaning approach isn't for everyone, with some fans wishing the volume translated into more finishes.
