As the highly anticipated UFC 311 pay-per-view event approaches, Merab Dvalishvili is creating a buzz in the UFC community. The UFC bantamweight champion will defend his title for the first time against Umar Nurmagomedov this weekend. Ahead of the fight, Dvalishvili has expressed his intentions of putting his UFC 311 opponent in brutal places.
Merab Dvalishvili and Umar Nurmagomedov will face each other in the co-main event of the upcoming fight. In preparation for fight night, the stars participated in a pre-fight press conference. Typically, these pressers involve fighters exchanging insults and addressing intriguing questions. Interestingly, when a reporter asked Dvalishvili about his potential plans to break a UFC record, he gave a surprising response.
That’s always good to break the records, but I’m here for fight. I’m not going to keep on wrestling. If record is happened, happened. If not, I want to punch Umar Nurmagomedov’s face and you guys all see on Saturday night.
Merab Dvalishvili via UFC 311 pre-fight press conference
Dvalishvili is on the verge of breaking the record for the most takedowns in UFC history. Currently, the record is held by UFC Hall of Famer Georges St-Pierre, who achieved an impressive 90 takedowns during his career.
Dvalishvili, with 85 successful takedowns, is close behind. However, despite approaching this remarkable milestone, the ‘Machine’ seems more interested in engaging in striking exchanges with Nurmagomedov rather than focusing on grappling.
Merab Dvalishvili more interested in “punching Umar Nurmagomedov on the face” than breaking GSP’s takedown record. 😂 #UFC311 pic.twitter.com/Q0Zw6h3JVG
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) January 17, 2025
One possible reason for the tension between Dvalishvili and Nurmagomedov is the animosity they share. Interestingly, the ‘Young Eagle’ has passed disrespectful comments at the champion. The UFC bantamweight champion was particularly upset with those unnecessary pokes.
As a result, Dvalishvili is fired up ahead of the fight, while Nurmagomedov maintains a calm demeanor. Now, it remains to be seen whether the Georgian fighter can neutralize the threat posed by Nurmagomedov as they compete for the bantamweight title this weekend.
UFC Records: Top 10 most takedowns landed in UFC history
Takedowns have long been a dominant technique in the world of MMA. They are particularly favored by top Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners and elite wrestlers competing in mixed martial arts. Over the years, the UFC has showcased many fighters who have effectively used takedowns to overpower their opponents. Here is a list of the Top 10 fighters with the most takedowns landed in UFC history.
Former UFC champion Georges St-Pierre landing a takedown (Image via Bleacher Report)The list begins with Georges St-Pierre, the former UFC welterweight champion, who is widely regarded as a dominant force inside the octagon. He holds the top position with a total of 90 takedowns. Following him are several veterans and active fighters in the promotion. The difference between second and third place is minimal; Merab Dvalishvili is in second with 85 takedowns, while Gleison Tibau is in third with 84.
Following them, the top 10 list includes Clay Guida, Demetrious Johnson, Frankie Edgar, Colby Covington, Nik Lentz, Demian Maia, and Rafael Dos Anjos in that order. Interestingly, if Dvalishvili can achieve at least six takedowns at UFC 311, he would surpass St-Pierre and secure his place in the UFC record books.
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