Merab Dvalishvili has disclosed that he was on the verge of withdrawing from his highly anticipated rematch against Petr Yan at UFC 323. Medical professionals had urged him to pull out of the fight due to complications encountered during his training camp.
Dvalishvili, a former UFC bantamweight champion, was set to face Yan in a rematch after losing his title the previous year. This fight held significant importance, as a victory would have made Dvalishvili the first champion in UFC history to achieve four successful title defenses within a single year.
The decision to proceed with the fight despite medical advice was not made lightly. Dvalishvili had already undergone three challenging weight cuts in 2025. The prospect of a fourth weight cut, coupled with other issues in his training camp, led UFC doctors to recommend he withdraw from the bout against Yan.
However, Dvalishvili, known as “The Machine,” demonstrated his characteristic resilience and determination. In a recent interview, he explained his mindset: “I like to take challenges. I like to take risks. That’s what I am. That’s what got me here. I knew already. During the training camp [for UFC 323], there were some issues. UFC doctors told me that I can pull out. But that’s who I am. I do not want to make excuses. I like to deal with challenges. I had worse situations before some fights, and I still made it through and won.”
Despite ultimately falling short in the rematch, Dvalishvili put on a grueling performance, maintaining a relentless pace for the entire five rounds, persistently seeking takedowns and even engaging in striking exchanges with Yan.
The UFC has reportedly assured Dvalishvili of a future title rematch once Petr Yan is ready. The highly anticipated trilogy bout is anticipated in the third quarter of 2026, aiming to definitively settle their 1-1 rivalry.
English Translation:
Merab Dvalishvili has revealed that he was nearly forced to pull out of his UFC 323 rematch against Petr Yan. Doctors had advised him to withdraw due to issues arising during his training camp, compounded by multiple previous weight cuts.
Dvalishvili, a former UFC bantamweight champion, was scheduled to face Yan in a rematch after losing his title the year prior. A win would have been historic, marking the first time a champion achieved four successful title defenses within a 12-month span.
The fighter had already endured three weight cuts in 2025, and a fourth was deemed inadvisable for the then-34-year-old. Additionally, training camp setbacks prompted UFC doctors to suggest he withdraw from the Yan rematch.
However, “The Machine” opted to persevere. In a recent interview, Dvalishvili stated, “I like to take challenges. I like to take risks. That’s what I am. That’s what got me here. I knew already. During the training camp [for UFC 323], there were some issues. UFC doctors told me that I can pull out. But that’s who I am. I do not want to make excuses. I like to deal with challenges. I had worse situations before some fights, and I still made it through and won.”
Despite not winning the rematch, Dvalishvili showcased his tenacity, maintaining a high pace for five rounds, relentlessly pursuing takedowns, and engaging in striking battles with Yan.
The UFC has reportedly committed to granting Dvalishvili another title shot once Yan is prepared. The pair are expected to meet for a third time in the third quarter of 2026 to settle their 1-1 rivalry.
