Dominick Cruz, a fighter poised for future induction into the UFC Hall of Fame, shared an intriguing perspective regarding Merab Dvalishvili’s potential claim as the greatest bantamweight of all time.
This weekend at UFC 316, UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili has the chance to not only conclude a competitive rivalry but also to further solidify his outstanding fighting record.
Dvalishvili is set to face Sean O’Malley for the second time in less than a year in Newark this Saturday. Following his title defense at UFC 311, Dvalishvili makes a quick return to the Octagon to meet O’Malley in the next chapter of their contentious history.
Leading up to UFC 316, discussions have frequently centered on Dvalishvili’s long-term legacy within the UFC’s bantamweight division. A victory on Saturday could propel him closer to being recognized as the division`s all-time best.
Dominick Cruz offers his take on Merab Dvalishvili’s GOAT discussion before UFC 316
Dominick Cruz, who retired earlier this year, is widely regarded by many fans as the greatest bantamweight ever. However, while Cruz remains the top contender in many minds, Dvalishvili is building a compelling argument for himself.
During a recent appearance on *The Bohnfire* podcast, Cruz weighed in on the bantamweight GOAT debate, which now includes himself and Dvalishvili.
The fact that there’s even a conversation with me involved, it’s not for me to decide something like that. I’m not saying it’s this level, but as a parallel you’re talking about LeBron [James] and [Michael] Jordan, right?
You’re never going to convince me ever, ever — no matter what, under any circumstance —that LeBron is better than Jordan. To me. But, then you got the latter that’s going to say the opposite. I love that there’s even a conversation. If there’s a conversation, then that’s what this thing is about – and you know what? Merab is making it a conversation, too. Good for him.
Cruz elaborated on why Dvalishvili merits inclusion in the bantamweight GOAT discussion, even after only one title defense.
This dude has run through the ladder. This dude has had to fight up and down the ladder exactly the same way that I did. I had to fight my way through the hardest fights in the division, multiple rematches, before I got my shots. I had to earn every scrap, and I see that similarity in Merab’s fights. I tip my hat to him.
While Dvalishvili still has ground to cover to match Cruz’s extensive bantamweight achievements, a win this weekend would solidify his trajectory toward potentially surpassing the UFC icon. Dvalishvili heads into UFC 316 riding a 12-fight win streak, including recent victories over notable opponents like Umar Nurmagomedov and Henry Cejudo.
Sean O’Malley’s GOAT case discussed by UFC legend leading up to Merab Dvalishvili rematch
In addition to Dvalishvili`s consideration for GOAT status, Sean O’Malley is also receiving attention ahead of UFC 316. UFC legend Chael Sonnen recently stated that O’Malley should be considered the greatest bantamweight of all time if he defeats Dvalishvili this weekend.
Prior to his loss to Dvalishvili at UFC 306 last September, O’Malley claimed the UFC bantamweight title by knocking out Aljamain Sterling and successfully defended it against Marlon Vera. UFC 316 marks O’Malley’s first fight since his initial encounter with Dvalishvili.
A great deal is at stake this weekend in the rematch between Dvalishvili and O’Malley. The winner will significantly enhance both their fight record and their historical legacy in the sport.
