Merab Dvalishvili title fight eyed by UFC champ to become 10th double champion in history

Amid rematch interest from Sean O'Malley, 'Machine' Merab Dvalishvili receives interest from Brazilian UFC champion.

Merab Dvalishvili title fight eyed by UFC champ to become 10th double champion in history

Who will bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili fight next? (Image via Instagram/iStock)

The current UFC roster features a number of exciting and dominant champions across nearly every division. One standout fighter is Merab Dvalishvili, the UFC bantamweight champion. His impressive 12-fight win streak run has made him a highly sought-after fighter. As such, he has even caught the attention of the UFC flyweight champion, Alexandre Pantoja.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the UFC, competitive energy surrounds fighters as they vie for the coveted champion vs. champion showdown. Recently, the UFC flyweight champion, Alexandre Pantoja, added his voice to this chorus of ambition. During an engaging appearance on The Fight Bananas Show, the Brazilian fighter passionately conveyed his desire to face off against Merab Dvalishvili.

I really wanted to fight with Merab (Dvalishvili) now, to get the second belt but like if I have the opportunity, it’s gonna be nice for me. People have put this in my mind, and now I start to think that’s a good idea.

Alexandre Pantoja via The Fight Bananas Show
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The UFC flyweight champion is currently experiencing a surge of confidence, largely due to his recent performances. At UFC 310, Pantoja decisively defeated Kai Asakura by submission. The Brazilian fighter has often faced intense scrutiny for his previous lackluster performances. However, contrary to everyone’s expectations, Pantoja triumphed over Asakura in the second round of their fight.

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In his pursuit of a challenge in the UFC flyweight division, Pantoja expressed interest in facing the champion of the bantamweight division. Interestingly, if the Brazilian fighter defeats Dvalishvili in an upcoming match, he could secure a spot in UFC history.

Currently, nine fighters have achieved double champion status in the promotion. Pantoja believes he has the potential to become the tenth double champion after defeating Dvalishvili.

When and Who is Merab Dvalishvili fighting next?

Since becoming the UFC bantamweight champion at Noche UFC (UFC 306), Merab Dvalishvili has been making waves in the promotion. The Georgian fighter earned the title by dominating Sean O’Malley and winning by unanimous decision. Most recently, Dvalishvili fought in his first bantamweight title defense against Umar Nurmagomedov.

Merab Dvalishvili in action against Sean O'Malley at Noche UFC to become champion
Merab Dvalishvili in action against Sean O’Malley at Noche UFC (Image via Forbes)

In the co-main event of the UFC 311 fight card, Dvalishvili surprised the UFC community by dismissing the threat posed by Nurmagomedov. Following that fight, discussions about potential opponents for the Georgian fighter resurfaced. During an interview with Ariel Helwani, Dvalishvili was asked whether O’Malley would be the next challenger for his title.

Yeah, I have no idea but looks like I guess, yes, looks like, maybe he (Sean O’Malley) is my next opponent, but who knows? I wanna fight the best option, whoever is the best next.

Merab Dvalishvili via The Ariel Helwani Show

Since losing the UFC bantamweight title to Dvalishvili, O’Malley has been calling for a rematch. However, it remains unclear when that rematch might happen, as UFC executives have not provided any updates about Dvalishvili’s next title defense. Furthermore, the expected return date for the Georgian fighter has not been discussed either.

Related: Merab Dvalishvili Net Worth, Endorsements, UFC contract, Girlfriend and House