Merab Dvalishvili’s reign as UFC bantamweight champion has been nothing short of relentless in 2025, and on December 6th he will look to further cement his place atop the division when he faces former champion Petr Yan at UFC 323. Confirmed by UFC President Dana White, the bout headlines what promises to be a stacked year-end card, drawing intense interest from fans and analysts alike. Expand Tweet
This will mark Dvalishvili’s fourth title defense in 2025, underscoring the champion’s extraordinary activity level in one of the UFC’s deepest weight classes. His previous defenses showcased both the grinding pace and suffocating control that have become his trademarks. From dismantling Cory Sandhagen in February, to outlasting Sean O’Malley in a tactical decision in May, to overwhelming Marl