“Wasn’t Happy About My Success” – Islam Makhachev Calls Out Merab Dvalishvili’s Criticism of His UFC 330 Celebration

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev question's Merab Dvalishvili's recent criticism of his Russian flag celebration.

“Wasn’t Happy About My Success” – Islam Makhachev Calls Out Merab Dvalishvili’s Criticism of His UFC 330 Celebration

Islam Makhachev calls out Merab Dvalishvili's comments (via Yahoo Sports)

Islam Makhachev has showcased his Russian heritage after victories. The Dagestan native often displays the Russian flag during celebrations. That continued at UFC 330 after defeating Ian Garry to retain his welterweight title. However, his celebrations caught former bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili‘s attention.

Makhachev made history at UFC 330 by defeating Garry and setting the UFC’s longest winning streak record as he secured his 17th straight UFC victory. Makhachev later celebrated with a Russian flag featuring his name, Khabib Nurmagomedov and Usman Nurmagomedov. He also wore it during his post-fight interview.

Dvalishvili questioned how Makhachev could celebrate with the Russian flag after UFC 330. The former champion noted that the UFC previously prevented him from bringing the Georgian flag. His criticism focused on different treatment regarding the national flag. Makhachev has since responded to Dvalishvili’s comments.

From the very beginning, he wasn’t happy at all about my success in the Octagon. He’s already spoken about this many times. But Petr Yan, after beating him and raising the flag in the Octagon, I think he’ll beat him again now and finally make him shut up.

Islam Makhachev via Ushatayka

Dvalishvili has also raised concerns about the UFC’s rules surrounding national flags. The UFC banned fighters from displaying national flags inside the Octagon in 2022. The policy was later changed before Dana White ended the broader flag ban in 2023. Dvalishvili has claimed he was still prevented from displaying the Georgian flag.

Dvalishvili has also developed a longstanding rivalry with the Dagestani team, dating back to his UFC 311 clash with Umar Nurmagomedov. The rivalry intensified during the buildup to their bantamweight title fight, with both sides exchanging trash talk. Dvalishvili ultimately defeated Nurmagomedov by unanimous decision.

Ahead of UFC 311, ‘The Machine’ repeatedly questioned Nurmagomedov’s connection to Dagestan and Russia. The Georgian also challenged his opponent’s representation of Dagestan during their heated buildup. Makhachev addressed those comments during the press conference and pushed back against Dvalishvili’s claims.

Interestingly, Makhachev also wanted Dvalishvili to lose to Petr Yan, who is from Russia and the current UFC bantamweight champion. Yan defeated the Georgian at UFC 323 in Las Vegas, avenging their first fight in March 2023. Dvalishvili won that first meeting by unanimous decision, leaving their series tied after Yan’s later victory.

Merab Dvalishvili and Petr Yan will meet for a third time at UFC 333 in Abu Dhabi. The event will take place at Etihad Arena. Their first two fights were split, leaving the rivals level heading into the trilogy. Islam Makhachev’s recent comments have added another layer, with the welterweight champion backing his fellow countryman.

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Islam Makhachev explains the importance of Khabib Nurmagomedov in his corner

Islam Makhachev’s childhood was shaped by training under legendary Dagestani coach Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. Although not Abdulmanap’s son, Makhachev became a major part of his famous Father’s Plan. Khabib Nurmagomedov now continues that vision and remains an important member of Makhachev’s team.

The UFC Hall of Famer has cornered Makhachev since 2021, becoming a key figure during his UFC rise. He notably guided Makhachev during his UFC 280 title win over Charles Oliveira. At UFC 322, Khabib hoisted Makhachev onto his shoulders and helped place the belts on him after becoming a two-division champion.

Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov
Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov (via BJJ Eastern Europe)

Nurmagomedov was a major part of Makhachev’s camp ahead of UFC 330 against Ian Garry. He recognized Garry’s challenge while remaining confident in his teammate’s preparation and abilities. After Makhachev’s successful title defense, the welterweight champion highlighted Khabib’s importance in his corner.

He constantly says such parting words which charge you up before the fight. Which well give you an understanding of the full responsibility that you are going out there and any mistake costs very dearly. Between rounds, Khabib has the best understanding of all of conducting the fight, There which round you won, where you need to push harder somewhere you need, there to slow down and in general Khabib’s presence in the corner is a very big support.

Islam Makhachev via Kurban Ragimov

Khabib Nurmagomedov has continued Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov’s coaching legacy through his mentorship of Islam Makhachev. He helped Makhachev develop into a champion while supporting his growth throughout his career. His guidance remains important to Makhachev’s success and the team’s coaching legacy.

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