Joe Rogan Believes ‘Guys on EPO’ Don’t Have Cardio like UFC Champ Merab Dvalishvili

UFC commentator Joe Rogan talks about Merab Dvalishvili's unnatural cardio, which has never been seen before in combat sports.

Joe Rogan Believes ‘Guys on EPO’ Don’t Have Cardio like UFC Champ Merab Dvalishvili

Joe Rogan gives Merab Dvalishvili credit for his cardio (via X/Imago)

Merab Dvalishvili is undoubtedly one of the best fighters on the current UFC roster with a rising superstar potential. The Georgian has had an incredible run so far in the bantamweight division, showing no signs of slowing down. He has already defended his title twice successfully against top contenders, solidifying his place among the best fighters today.

Dvalishvili has established himself as a force of nature inside the octagon, gaining widespread respect from fans and analysts alike. His dominance has impressed many experts such as Joe Rogan, who constantly praises his energy, durability, and never-ending pressure. In a recent episode of his JRE Podcast, Rogan talked about one of his expert friends getting impressed by Dvalishvili’s cardio.

He’s like guys that I have known that have been on EPO don’t have that cardio. This is crazy cardio. This is like something freakish. He thinks that some of this is genetic but Merab says it’s not. Merab says, ‘No, I used to get tired.’ He’s a freak.

Joe Rogan via JRE

Dvalishvili’s cardio is considered elite, often overwhelming opponents with constant pressure and nonstop movement throughout all three or five rounds. In his fight against Petr Yan, the fighter maintained a relentless pace, attempting forty-nine takedowns and dominating every single round.

Against Jose Aldo, he used his incredible gas tank to control the legend against the cage and nullify all dangerous offenses. At UFC 298, the Georgian Sambo expert outwrestled Olympic Gold medal winner Henry Cejudo in a stunning performance.

His style revolves around wearing opponents down mentally and physically, as seen in every outing where he never seems to slow down. In his two fights against Sean O’Malley, the fighter used the same game plan that won him the fights. Many believe that his background in construction is one of the biggest reasons for this; others say it’s his incredible training.

Dvalishvili is widely recognized not just for his fighting skills but also for his wild and unusual training routines. Jumping into freezing lakes or doing pull-ups from high cliffs are completely normal occurrences in his intense preparation phases. This fearless attitude, however, has occasionally led to minor injuries just days before important bouts, worrying fans and teammates alike.

UFC veteran suggests a worthy opponent for Merab Dvalishvili

In his last outing at UFC 316, Merab Dvalishvili absolutely dismantled Sean O’Malley and submitted him in the third round. Following that dominant victory, he joined the elite list of fighters with a 13-fight win streak, standing alongside true UFC legends. This incredible feat placed him beside names like Georges St-Pierre, Jon Jones, Khabib Nurmagomedov and other dominant champions.

Merab Dvalishvili beats Sean O'Malley at UFC 316
Merab Dvalishvili beats Sean O’Malley at UFC 316 (via X)

After the fight, Dvalishvili surged to the #2 spot in the UFC pound-for-pound rankings, surpassing his Georgian compatriot Ilia Topuria. Now, many fans are doubtful about any potential candidate who has the ability to beat the ‘Machine’ in the bantamweight division. However, in a recent podcast, TJ Dillashaw shared a unique opportunity that could be an incredible fight

I want to see Merab and Sterling fight. They could make so much money. I understand (that they’re best friends) but you’re getting paid… (Sterling) should come back down… You’re here to get paid, I don’t know, I think it’d be an awesome story.

TJ Dillashaw via Jaxxon Podcast

The friendship between Dvalishvili and Aljamain Sterling is one of the strongest bonds in the UFC today. They met at Serra-Longo Fight Team in New York, where they trained together daily, pushing each other to become elite bantamweight contenders. Both fighters credit their growth to this partnership, constantly motivating and supporting one another through intense camps.

Even when Sterling became champion, Dvalishvili refused to fight him, stating that their brotherhood and loyalty meant more than chasing the belt. Their relationship is based on deep respect and shared values, making them role models. On top of that, Sterling is currently more focused on fighting O’Malley in order to settle their beef and avenge his previous loss.

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