Merab Dvalishvili: The Machine from Georgia Dominating the UFC
Introduction
Merab Dvalishvili, often called "The Machine," is one of the most relentless and dynamic bantamweight fighters in the UFC. Hailing from the country of Georgia, his rise to prominence has been fueled by sheer determination, intense cardio, and unmatched wrestling skills. In this blog, we’ll explore Merab’s early life, fighting style, UFC journey, personal achievements, and what the future holds for this rising star.
Early Life and Background
Born on January 10, 1991, in Tbilisi, Georgia, Merab Dvalishvili grew up during a challenging time in the post-Soviet era. His childhood was filled with discipline and physical activity, as he was introduced to various combat sports including traditional Georgian wrestling, judo, and Sambo.
At the age of 21, Merab moved to the United States in pursuit of his MMA dream. Despite not speaking English and working odd jobs to survive, his work ethic and grit remained unmatched.
Fighting Style and Skills
Merab is best known for his high-pressure wrestling, non-stop movement, and incredible cardio. He consistently ranks among the fighters with the most takedown attempts in UFC history. Here’s what makes his style unique:
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Relentless Takedowns – Often attempts 10-20 takedowns per fight.
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High Volume – Outpaces most opponents with his pace.
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Grappling Control – Dominates ground positions and clinches.
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Durability – Hard to knock down and recovers quickly from damage.
His moniker “The Machine” fits him perfectly – he never seems to slow down.
UFC Journey
Debut and Early Struggles
Merab made his UFC debut on April 21, 2018, at UFC Fight Night 128 against Ricky Simón. Despite a strong showing, he lost via controversial technical submission. His second fight was also a narrow loss.
But setbacks didn't break him — they motivated him.
Winning Streak and Rise to Contender
After those early defeats, Merab went on a remarkable win streak, defeating big names like:
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Brad Katona
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John Dodson
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Cody Stamann
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José Aldo – a legendary former champion.
Each win proved that Merab wasn’t just a grinder — he was a serious title contender.
Merab vs Petr Yan: A Defining Performance
In March 2023, Merab faced former bantamweight champion Petr Yan. This was a career-defining fight. Dvalishvili:
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Attempted a record 49 takedowns.
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Maintained pressure from start to finish.
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Defeated Yan via unanimous decision.
This performance sent shockwaves through the bantamweight division and positioned him as a top title challenger.
Personal Life and Values
Despite his growing fame, Merab remains grounded:
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Deeply connected to his Georgian roots.
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Close friends with fellow UFC star Aljamain Sterling.
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Values loyalty, discipline, and humility.
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Trains at Serra-Longo Fight Team in New York.
He’s proud of representing Georgia and often carries the national flag after his victories.
Championship Prospects
As of mid-2025, fans eagerly await news of Merab’s title shot. With Sean O'Malley, Cory Sandhagen, and other top contenders in the mix, Merab’s path is both challenging and exciting. UFC President Dana White has acknowledged that Merab deserves a crack at the belt soon.
Merab’s Record (as of 2025)
| Wins | Losses | Notable Wins |
|---|---|---|
| 17 | 4 | José Aldo, Petr Yan, John Dodson |
His impressive record and growth speak volumes about his dedication and talent.
What’s Next for The Machine?
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A title shot in 2025 seems likely.
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Fans expect a potential clash with top-ranked bantamweights or even super fights.
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Merab might explore moving to featherweight later in his career.
Regardless of what's ahead, Dvalishvili is now a fan favorite due to his heart, work ethic, and exciting fighting style.
Legacy and Inspiration
Merab Dvalishvili represents the dream of every underdog — a man who came from humble beginnings, crossed continents, faced hardships, and now stands at the edge of UFC greatness. His journey inspires countless aspiring fighters from Eastern Europe and beyond.
He isn’t just a fighter — he’s a symbol of resilience and national pride.
Conclusion
Merab Dvalishvili’s journey in the UFC is nothing short of incredible. From his Georgian roots to taking down some of the top names in the world, he has earned his place among the bantamweight elite. Whether or not he captures the title, “The Machine” has already won the hearts of fight fans worldwide.
Stay tuned — because Merab is just getting started.