Merab Dvalishvili overcame significant health challenges, including a staph infection, to successfully defend his bantamweight title against Umar Nurmagomedov, and is set to face Sean O’Malley in a rematch at UFC 316, with his coach emphasizing Dvalishvili’s resilience and refusal to make excuses.
Merab Dvalishvili is set for his second bantamweight title defense against Sean O’Malley at UFC 316. Surprisingly, he barely made it to his first defense in January.
After defeating O’Malley last September, Dvalishvili quickly returned to face Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311. The challenge was immense, given Nurmagomedov’s grappling prowess.
Despite being the underdog, Dvalishvili secured a significant win while not in peak health. His coach, John Wood, revealed the extent of his struggles.
“He had an open wound, a staph infection, and was on antibiotics,” Wood shared. “I would’ve pulled him out if it were up to me.”
Dvalishvili’s performance shone even brighter, overcoming Nurmagomedov in the later rounds. His conditioning remains a key weapon.
Antibiotics can severely impact athletes, yet Dvalishvili pushed through. Wood was amazed by his determination to fight on schedule.
“He could barely walk but sparred 10 rounds phenomenally,” Wood noted. “I knew we’d win, but his condition worried me.”
Dvalishvili wasn’t at his best physically, yet he earned a unanimous decision. Nurmagomedov later revealed a broken hand from round one.
Wood sympathizes with injured fighters but can’t overlook Dvalishvili’s challenges. “You guys asked for the fight,” he reminded.
Excuses are common in MMA. Dvalishvili himself faced a hip injury before defeating O’Malley. O’Malley promises a different fight post-surgery.
Wood insists Dvalishvili won’t make excuses, win or lose. “If he loses the belt, you won’t hear excuses from him,” Wood stated.
The rematch with O’Malley intrigues Wood. “Sean knows what to expect now. It’ll be even more deflating for him this time.”
Regardless of health, Dvalishvili never shies from a fight. Wood believes he’d be the most active champion if the UFC allowed it.
“He loves to fight,” Wood said. “He’d fight every other month if he could.”