Merab Dvalishvili Nationality: Daniel Cormier Doesn’t Claim UFC Champion as American

UFC legend Daniel Cormier questions Merab Dvalishvili's American citizenship before switching up hilariously when the Georgian shows up.

Merab Dvalishvili Nationality: Daniel Cormier Doesn’t Claim UFC Champion as American

Daniel Cormier questions Merab Dvalishvili's nationality (via Bleacher Report, X)

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The UFC has evolved into a global sports organization, attracting fighters from every corner of the world. Athletes from diverse backgrounds bring a wide range of styles and skills, creating matchups that capture international attention. Among these fighters, Daniel Cormier recently questioned the national identity of UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili, who holds dual citizenship in Georgia and the USA.

Dvalishvili has steadily risen through the UFC ranks with a series of notable victories. Since his debut in 2017, he has become known for his relentless pace, wrestling expertise, and ability to maintain pressure throughout fights. He has defeated key opponents, including Henry Cejudo, Jose Aldo, and Petr Yan. His cardio and grappling prowess ultimately led him to defeat Sean O’Malley to win championship gold.

Cormier was recently seen talking to multiple fighters competing on the upcoming UFC 320 card during the UFC Weigh-In Show, which he hosted alongside Laura Sanko and UFC veteran Chris Weidman. Dvalishvili is defending his championship against Cory Sandhagen in the co-main event of the card and was set to make an appearance.

Initially, DC viewed Dvalishvili primarily through the lens of his Georgian heritage. Cormier’s early commentary emphasized that Dvalishvili’s nationality distinguished him from American fighters, framing the Georgian athlete as an international figure rather than a member of the United States’ roster.

I don’t claim him. The moment he comes up here with an American accent, I’ll claim him. If Merab comes up here and sounds Georgian, he’s Georgian. If he looks Georgian and he sounds Georgian, he’s Georgian.

Daniel Cormier via UFC Weigh-In Show

This perspective shifted after Dvalishvili appeared publicly, demonstrating speech and mannerisms consistent with an American accent. Following this, Cormier acknowledged him as an American fighter, adjusted his earlier stance, and recognized the 135-pound champion’s place among the country’s UFC athletes.

USA! USA! He sounds like he’s from New York. I don’t even hear the Georgian accent… This is my guy, my American champion.

Daniel Cormier via UFC Weigh-In Show

Dvalishvili was born and raised in Georgia, where he began training in wrestling at a young age. His early development in the sport laid the foundation for his distinctive MMA style. Relocating to the United States allowed him to refine his skills further and compete at the highest levels, which eventually earned him a UFC contract and helped him achieve international recognition.

Through his championship achievements and antics outside the cage, Merab Dvalishvili has become a fan favorite. His journey from Georgia to becoming the bantamweight champion has cemented his status as one of the division’s most prominent figures. Daniel Cormier’s earlier remarks regarding his nationality highlight the evolving conversation around global representation in the UFC.

Does Merab Dvalishvili have American Citizenship?

The world of mixed martial arts has long attracted talent from across the globe, with fighters bringing unique backgrounds and experiences to the UFC stage. Many athletes navigate the complexities of national identity as they establish themselves in their sport. Such was the case for Merab Dvalishvili, who moved to America after spending his early life in Georgia.

Merab Dvalishvili's nationality
Merab Dvalishvili’s nationality (via X)

Dvalishvili moved to the United States in 2013 at the age of 22 to pursue a career in mixed martial arts. He trained under notable coaches Ray Longo and Matt Serra in New York and eventually rose through the ranks to become the UFC Bantamweight Champion. He often honors both nations, carrying Georgian and American flags during fights to reflect his dual citizenship and heritage.

However, on March 22, 2024, Dvalishvili confirmed via a post on X that he had become a naturalized U.S. citizen. He also expressed gratitude for the opportunities in America and affirmed his continued connection to his home country of Georgia.

Dvalishvili’s announcement and career achievements highlight the duality of identity in modern sports. By attaining American citizenship while honoring his Georgian roots, he embodies the global nature of the UFC. His rise to championship status, combined with this personal milestone, underscores his standing as a prominent and respected figure in mixed martial arts.

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