Merab Dvalishvili breaks silence following his recent championship loss at UFC 333, confirming he is healthy and motivated.
Former bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili has officially broken his silence after failing to recapture his crown against Petr Yan at the UFC 333 co-main event last weekend in Abu Dhabi.
The setback marked the second consecutive defeat for the Georgian fighter against his rival, effectively removing him from the immediate 135-pound title picture after a remarkable 14-fight winning streak came to an end, according to information published by mmamania.
Despite the difficult loss, the top-ranked bantamweight contender took to social media to express gratitude toward his team, training partners, and the UFC organization while confirming that he plans to return to the cage soon.
Merab Dvalishvili addresses fans after UFC 333
In his first public statement since the event, Merab Dvalishvili shared a message of appreciation on social media, thanking God, his cornermen, and his dedicated training partners in Las Vegas and New York.
The veteran contender emphasized that his spirits remain high and his physical condition is strong, famously declaring that his athletic drive remains unbroken as he looks ahead to his next chapter in the UFC.
What is next for the bantamweight contender
Turning 36 in January, Merab Dvalishvili currently holds the No. 1 ranking at 135 pounds and has already defeated the vast majority of the top-ten division outside of fresh rising names like Mario Bautista and Song Yadong.
Matchmakers might hesitate to pit him against newer contenders depending on how the proposed rematch between Petr Yan and Sean O'Malley unfolds in the near future.
Petr Yan trilogy and divisional impact
The championship trilogy bout at UFC 333 solidified Petr Yan as a dominant force at bantamweight, with Yan noting that his Georgian opponent consistently brought out the best in him throughout their storied rivalry.
With a professional record of 21-6, Merab Dvalishvili remains a central figure in the 135-pound weight class, proving that his elite status in mixed martial arts is far from diminished by the recent championship setback.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Merab Dvalishvili fight at UFC 333?
Merab Dvalishvili faced Petr Yan in their championship trilogy fight during the UFC 333 co-main event in Abu Dhabi.
What is Merab Dvalishvili's current ranking and record?
Merab Dvalishvili holds a professional record of 21-6 and remains ranked as the No. 1 bantamweight contender in the UFC.
Will Merab Dvalishvili fight again soon?
Yes, Dvalishvili stated on social media that he is healthy, motivated, and eager to return to the UFC cage soon.
