Tension is rising in the UFC bantamweight division, spurred by several emerging feuds and rivalries. One notable rivalry is between the newly crowned champion, Merab Dvalishvili, and the #2 ranked Umar Nurmagomedov. Recently, the champion discussed his potential return, which could influence his potential matchup with the ‘Young Eagle.’
A month ago, Merab Dvalishvili crowned himself the new bantamweight champion. Since then, several contenders have been vying for a shot at the title. One of these contenders is Umar Nurmagomedov, a standout from Team Khabib. Recently, Dvalishvili revealed a potential timeline for his first title defense. Interestingly, this could pose challenges for Nurmagomedov’s ability to compete during that period.
Umar (Nurmagomedov) wanted to fight December and he was keep talking trash in the internet like bro I just win the title fight… Usually every champion take six months… I need six months…
Merab Dvalishvili via ProsPick MMA on YT
Umar Nurmagomedov is a devoted Muslim, and Ramadan holds significant value. As a result, many Muslim fighters prefer to avoid competing during this month. Merab Dvalishvili aims to return for his first title defense in March, which coincides with Ramadan, making the matchup impossible. Nurmagomedov is scheduled to fight Song Yadong in December.
Merab Dvalishvili reacts to the booking of Umar Nurmagomedov vs Song Yadong:
“Umar wanted to fight in December… bro I just won the title.”
He also says he’d like to return in March, and mentions Sean O’Malley, the winner of Yan/Figueiredo and the winner of Umar/Song as… pic.twitter.com/gRww2f0hI9
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) October 19, 2024
Umar Nurmagomedov is the only undefeated fighter among the top five bantamweights in the division. Because of this, he and his team were confident about securing a title shot next. However, Nurmagomedov felt that Merab Dvalishvili was intentionally ignoring his callouts.
This eventually led to Nurmagomedov losing hope for a title fight. Instead, he called out for anyone willing to fight before Ramadan. With Nurmagomedov potentially out of the picture for Dvalishvili’s first title defense, this might open up opportunities for other fighters.
Former UFC bantamweight champion wants to avenge his loss against Merab Dvalishvili
Merab Dvalishvili initially struggled in the UFC, suffering consecutive losses in his first two fights. However, he worked hard to improve and has since risen through the ranks without facing another defeat. He is currently riding high on an impressive 11-fight win streak, with his most recent victory coming against the former bantamweight champion, Sean O’Malley.
After his defeat, O’Malley did not acknowledge Dvalishvili’s unanimous decision victory over him. The Montana native believed he had won the fight and immediately called for a rematch. The former bantamweight champion recently discussed the possible timeline for his return, which may align with Dvalishvili’s schedule.
I’m saying March or April. I’m doing everything I can do to get back in there. My mindset, my ambition, my drive, everything is at an all-time high. I want to get back in the gym…
Sean O’Malley via The Ariel Helwani Show
Sean O’Malley is currently recovering from hip surgery following his recent fight at UFC 306. Meanwhile, Merab Dvalishvili is looking to celebrate his new championship title briefly before stepping back into the ring. With a potential rematch between O’Malley and Dvalishvili on the horizon, it will be interesting to see how the UFC plans these matchups.
