Merab Dvalishvili, better known as “The Machine,” once again showed why he’s the reigning UFC bantamweight champion. At UFC 311, Merab overcame incredible challenges to defend his title against Umar Nurmagomedov, handing the rising star his first career loss.
But Merab’s win was even more impressive considering the injuries he carried into the fight. Weeks before UFC 311, Merab injured his back during training camp. Things got worse when a nasty cut on his right shin needed stitches and became infected, limiting his ability to train properly.
Battling Injury and Outsmarting the Commission
Fighting in California meant dealing with one of the strictest commissions in the sport. Merab was worried they might not allow him to compete if they noticed his leg injury.
“California has a very strict commission, and they check everything on your body,” Merab explained during an interview on The Ariel Helwani Show. He shared how he had to think quickly during pre-fight checks.
“So I lifted my pants and showed him my left leg shin, and he kept talking,” Merab said, recalling how he avoided showing the injured leg.
He didn’t stop there. “And then the second time he asked me to show him the other leg, I showed him my left leg again, and he didn’t realize. Who knows, maybe I could pass if I showed him my right leg, but I didn’t want to risk it,” he added.
This quick thinking allowed Merab to step into the Octagon and showcase his skills despite not being at 100 percent.
A Record-Breaking Performance
In the fight itself, Merab once again proved why he’s one of the best in the division. Known for his relentless pace and cardio, he dominated the later rounds to secure a unanimous decision victory. Along the way, Merab broke Georges St-Pierre’s record for the most takedowns in UFC history, adding another achievement to his growing legacy.
After the fight, Merab shared graphic footage of his injured shin, showing how serious it was before the event. Despite his challenges, he stayed focused and defended his title like a true champion.
Could Sean O’Malley Be Next in Line?
Following the fight, UFC President Dana White suggested that Sean O’Malley could be Merab’s next opponent. O’Malley, who lost his title to Merab at UFC 306, was in attendance at UFC 311, sparking more speculation about a potential rematch.
For now, Merab is expected to take time off to fully recover from his injuries. While the California commission only gave him a seven-day medical suspension, his body likely needs a longer break before returning to the Octagon.
Merab’s story at UFC 311 isn’t just about another win. It’s about overcoming pain, outsmarting tough challenges, and proving why he deserves to be called “The Machine.”
