Fans and several UFC stars have mocked Merab Dvalishvili for avoiding a bantamweight title defense against Umar Nurmagomedov. While Dvalishvili explained his reasons for not wanting to face Nurmagomedov, he also faced heavy trolling. However, his friend Aljamain Sterling has come to his defense, backing Dvalishvili’s decision to avoid the fight.
‘The Machine’ claimed the bantamweight title at UFC 306 by defeating Sean O’Malley, and since then, fans have speculated that the Georgian fighter would face ‘The Young Eagle’ next in his first title defense. However, Dvalishvili has repeatedly stated that Nurmagomedov doesn’t deserve a title shot.
His comments sparked backlash from many, but former bantamweight champion Sterling, a close friend of Dvalishvili, has come to his defense. In a recent YouTube video, the ‘Funk Master’ shared his thoughts and he said,
“Some people think [Merab] is afraid of fighting [Umar]. That’s hilarious. From what I understand, Merab is just standing on principle: ‘Bro, I’m from the same area as you… I had to come here and bust my a** to get a title shot, and you’re going to get it off one win? That’s crazy.”
Merab Dvalishvili Challenges Umar Nurmagomedov To “Earn Your Title Shot” In New Skit
UFC bantamweight champion Dvalishvili is back with another skit, this time explaining why a fight with Petr Yan makes more sense than facing Nurmagomedov. In a video shared on social media, Dvalishvili highlights his 11 straight wins and victories over former champions and contenders, a resume he shares with Yan. He argues that Nurmagomedov, on the other hand, is being given a title shot based on his last name, not his accomplishments in the octagon.
“I mean this guy wants title shots served to his bed like a breakfast. Biggest lesson here: Umar get to work. You’re not my level. Earn your title shot like the rest of us, whose last names don’t get gifts. Class dismissed.”
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‘The Machine’ shows no signs of granting a title shot to ‘The Young Eagle.’ However, Dvalishvili is likely to defend his title in 2025, and fans are eager to find out who will be his opponent for his first-ever title defense.
Also Read: Merab Dvalishvili Vows To “Smash” Umar Nurmagomedov Ahead Of Anticipated Title Showdown
