Merab Dvalishvili has moved past most rivalries, such as former Bantamweight Champion Sean O’Malley. But when it comes to Umar Nurmagomedov, things are a lot more personal. And the rivalry is far from over. The tension began when Umar pursued a title shot against the reigning Bantamweight Champion. The Young Eagle did everything in his power to get the title shot. He also verbally assaulted the Georgian fighter and claimed that the champion was ‘ducking’ him.

But Merab Dvalishvili’s reasoning for not accepting the challenge was simple, he believes Nurmagomedov has not done enough to challenge him for the title. The champion argued that Umar’s opportunity was largely influenced by his blood relation to Khabib Nurmagomedov. Despite all the tension and drama, the two eventually faced off. At

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