The drama kicked into high gear after UFC Macau, where Petr Yan picked up a win over Deiveson Figueiredo. Before the sweat could even dry on Yan’s brow, Merab Dvalishvili hopped on social media to offer him a title shot. This didn’t sit well with Umar Nurmagomedov, who’s been patiently waiting his turn after beating Cory Sandhagen earlier this year.
Nurmagomedov didn’t hold back his frustration. The undefeated fighter pointed out what many fans have been thinking: Dvalishvili seems to be avoiding him like the Plaque. And with Nurmagomedov’s perfect record and famous last name, who can blame the champ for being a bit hesitant?
“No one is surprised,” wrote Nurmagomedov on X.
No one is surprised.
— Umar Nurmagomedov (@UNmgdv) November 23, 2024
The whole situation has gotten pretty messy, with Merab Dvalishvili playing musical opponents. First, he hinted at giving Sean O’Malley a rematch, then he made eyes at Yan, all while Nurmagomedov stood there waving his resume. Dvalishvili even tried to downplay the Dagestani’s achievements, suggesting his title shot push comes from his family connection to UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov rather than his impressive wins.
But the UFC brass seems to be in Umar Nurmagomedov’s corner. They have made it clear they want him to get his shot at the belt. After all, the guy’s beaten some serious competition, including Cory Sandhagen, who’s no slouch in the bantamweight division.
Petr Yan Echoes Merab Dvalishvilli’s Stance On Umar Nurmagomedov
Just when fans thought the back-and-forth between champion Dvalishvili and Nurmagomedov couldn’t get more interesting, Petr Yan decided to stir the pot. The former champion jumped into the debate about who deserves the next title shot, and he’s not exactly Team Nurmagomedov.
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Speaking before his fight at UFC Macau, Yan dropped some truth bombs that probably won’t make the Umar Nurmagomedov camp very happy. He agreed with Dvalishvili’s stance that Umar needed to prove himself more before getting a crack at the gold.
"Merab is avoiding the fight with Umar Nurmagomedov. He understands that it is dangerous for him. He wants to defend the belt a couple of times against less risky guys. But Umar didn't really beat anyone in the UFC TOP15 either and needs more wins to get a title shot."
— Pam (@ParamPam1990) November 21, 2024
— Petr Yan pic.twitter.com/h9f3wcSx5c
Yan believed that Umar Nurmagomedov’s fast rise owes more to his famous last name than his fighting resume. While he acknowledges the Dagestani’s talent, he believes the young fighter’s connection to former champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has given him an express pass up the rankings.
Also Read: Merab Dvalishvili Vows To “Smash” Umar Nurmagomedov Ahead Of Anticipated Title Showdown
