Merab Dvalishvili Plans Two More Title Defenses in 2025

UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili has ambitious plans for 2025, aiming to defend his title two more times after his upcoming rematch against Sean O'Malley at UFC 316 on June 7. If successful, Dvalishvili will have four title defenses in a single year, a rare feat in UFC history.

Dvalishvili, known as "The Machine" for his relentless fighting style, previously defended his belt in January against Umar Nurmagomedov. He has expressed interest in competing at Noche UFC in Guadalajara, Mexico, on September 13, followed by another bout in New York or Las Vegas in November or December.

Despite dominating O'Malley in their first fight, Dvalishvili acknowledges that the rematch will be a challenge. O'Malley has vowed to return as a "70 percent better version", and Dvalishvili is eager to test his opponent’s improvements.

Dvalishvili has built a reputation for durability and perseverance, often competing through significant injuries. Ahead of his first title defense against Nurmagomedov, he fought through a pinched nerve in his back and a severe staph infection, an ailment described by his coach as so serious that “regular people would have probably had their leg amputated”.

Adding to the intrigue, Dvalishvili recently revealed that he suffered a suspected broken toe less than two weeks before his scheduled fight against O'Malley. Despite the injury, he remains committed to competing, joking that he would "cut it off" rather than withdraw from the fight.

UFC CEO Dana White has praised Dvalishvili’s work ethic, noting that his willingness to stay active makes him one of the most reliable champions in the organization. If he successfully defends his title against O'Malley, he could solidify his legacy as one of the most dominant bantamweight champions in UFC history.