Daniel Cormier Goes Off on Merab Dvalishvili’s Takedown Feat Against Cory Sandhagen

UFC legend Daniel Cormier analyses the UFC 320 title fight between Merab Dvalishvili and Cory Sandhagen and points out the takedown accuracy.

Daniel Cormier Goes Off on Merab Dvalishvili’s Takedown Feat Against Cory Sandhagen

Daniel Cormier goes off on Merab Dvalishvili (via MMA Fighting, Sportsnet)

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In mixed martial arts, ground control and wrestling-heavy performances have often struggled to earn the same spotlight as striking-based displays. Takedown records and positional dominance have not always been given the recognition they deserve compared to knockouts or submissions. Daniel Cormier recently reignited this discussion while analyzing the bout between Merab Dvalishvili and Cory Sandhagen.

Dvalishvili has built his reputation on a relentless pace and unmatched cardio, constantly pushing opponents into defensive grappling exchanges. His style has led to record-setting takedown numbers and an ability to neutralize some of the division’s best strikers, such as Petr Yan and Sean O’Malley. However, his grapple-heavy approach has left fans divided over his entertainment factor.

The Georgian star recently made a statement at UFC 320, where he dominated Sandhagen and increased his win streak to 14 straight wins. The bout was also significant for Dvalishvili as he became the first fighter to reach 100 takedowns in the UFC, and the bout against Sandhagen exceeded the record to 117. However, Cormier highlighted the challenges judges face when determining the value of takedowns.

The way they score takedowns is a problem. A takedown should be when you go to the mat, not when a guy just picks you up and puts you back down. Merab didn’t get 20 takedowns — probably 5 or 6, then 14 mat returns.

Daniel Cormier via ESPN MMA

The Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts outline that effective striking and grappling should be the primary scoring components, followed by aggression and octagon control. However, the interpretation of what constitutes a “successful” takedown has varied between events and commissions. This inconsistency has fueled broader discussions about modernizing the scoring system to reflect the sport’s evolution.

Dvalishvili developed his skills through a combination of traditional and modern combat arts. He trained in kartuli ch’idaoba, a form of conventional Georgian wrestling emphasizing balance and positional control. Alongside this, he practiced khridoli, a Georgian martial art that blends striking and grappling, historically designed for self-defense. Dvalishvili also trained extensively in sambo and judo.

As the UFC continues to feature fighters with elite wrestling and grappling backgrounds, the discussion surrounding scoring standards is only expected to intensify. Daniel Cormier’s recent critique of Merab Dvalishvili highlighted how subtle differences in judging interpretation can influence results, reinforcing the need for greater uniformity and appreciation of diverse fighting styles within the sport.

Daniel Cormier names the biggest challenge for Merab Dvalishvili after UFC 320

The UFC’s bantamweight division continues to evolve around Merab Dvalishvili, whose relentless grappling and endurance have made him one of the most dominant champions in recent memory. Known for setting record-breaking takedown numbers and maintaining a pace few opponents can match, Dvalishvili’s rise has reshaped the competitive landscape at 135 pounds.

Daniel Cormier talks about the hardest matchup for Merab Dvalishvili
Daniel Cormier talks about the hardest matchup for Merab Dvalishvili (via Bloody Elbow, MMA Fighting)

As the debate over his next opponent intensifies, attention has turned to Daniel Cormier’s assessment of Dvalishvili’s future challenges. The former champion believed that one fighter, in particular, presents the most complete threat to his dominance. In Cormier’s view, no matchup would be more intriguing or more difficult for the Georgian champion than a showdown with none other than Umar Nurmagomedov.

I’ve got to tell you, I think Umar Nurmagomedov is probably the one guy that can challenge him. We saw their fight; it was 48-47 across the board. Everyone else cannot stay with him. It’s going to be very difficult for guys to figure out how to beat him because he’s just going to keep hitting them with takedowns. He’s a very hard challenge to prepare for.

Daniel Cormier via UFC 320 broadcast

Now, attention turns to Dvalishvili’s rematch with Petr Yan at UFC 323, giving the former champion a chance at redemption. Having already defeated Yan with relentless wrestling and pace, Dvalishvili looks to reaffirm his dominance in the bantamweight division. It remains to be seen if Umar Nurmagomedov gets his rematch after UFC 323.

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