The potential showdown between Umar Nurmagomedov and Merab Dvalishvili has been a hot topic following UFC 306. Dvalishvili secured the victory and ascended to the bantamweight title throne. Ali Abdelaziz, Nurmagomedov’s manager, immediately hinted on social media that Nurmagomedov is being lined up as the next challenger. Here is what happened:
Ali Abdelaziz recently sent out a tweet on X congratulating Merab Dvalishvili on his success at Noche UFC. The undefeated cousin of former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov is currently the top contender in the division. He recently defeated Cory Sandhagen at UFC on ABC 7 to become the next potential challenger for the title.
I spoke to @ufc @UNmgdv next congratulation to merab nobody deserve it more than him.
Ali Abdelaziz via X
Nurmagomedov’s camp is confident that it is only a matter of time before the UFC officially announces him as Dvalishvili’s next opponent. In fact, his brother, Bellator lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov, has also publicly made a statement. He stated that the Georgian champion “can run, but can’t hide” from the inevitable matchup.
I spoke to @ufc @UNmgdv next congratulation to merab nobody deserve it more than him 🙏🏾🙏🏾
— Ali Abdelaziz (@AliAbdelaziz00) September 15, 2024
Meanhile Dvalishvili has expressed more interest in other potential challengers, such as Deiveson Figueiredo. He had even gone as far as to say that the Dagestani is not deserving of a title shot. However, it seems likely that the UFC will prioritize a Nurmagomedov title shot. This is a given, considering his growing popularity, undefeated record, and dominant performances.
‘White Papakha vs Black Papakha’ showdown challenge offered to Merab Dvalishvili
Both Merab Dvalishvili and Umar Nurmagomedov are incredible wrestlers. The Dagestani himself expressed on social media that Dvalishvili should take up the fight next. He made an interesting proposition on X writing there has to be a “White Papakha vs Black Papakha” showdown.
Umar Nurmagomedov proposes ‘White Papakha vs Black Papakha’ showdown (Image via X)Merab Dvalishvili’s hat, like Khabib Nurmagomedov’s, is called a papakha. It is a traditional hat worn by the peoples of the Caucasus region, including Georgia, Dagestan, and Chechnya.
Both fighters wear it as a symbol of cultural pride and heritage. While both Dvalishvili and Nurmagomedov wear versions of the papakha, there are slight differences.
White Papakha vs Black Papakha
Have to beCongratulations @MerabDvalishvil
Right now you champion
You deserve this belt
Enjoy .— Umar Nurmagomedov (@UNmgdv) September 15, 2024
Dvalishvili’s papakha is specifically tied to Georgian traditions and is typically brown. Historically, the papakha symbolizes honor and bravery, worn by shepherds, warriors, and respected leaders in the Caucasus. It remains to be seen what the UFC decides to do with Nurmagomedov and the new champion. Chances are the duo will compete against each other early next year.
