Initially welcoming a showdown with perennial contender, Alexandre Pantoja subsequent, Merab Dvalishvili has confirmed he’s now keen to welcome Alexandre Pantoja to the bantamweight restrict following his dominant win at UFC 316 over the weekend.
Dvalishvili, who headlined the promotion’s return to New Jersey over the weekend, turned in his second profitable title protection of the yr already.
And touchdown a formidable victory over two-time foe, Sean O’Malley — Dvalishvili turned in a dominant third spherical north-south choke submission win over the Montana striker, following a previous title combat victory again in September of final yr.
However in January, O’Malley would land a unanimous determination win over the unbeaten, Umar Nurmagomedov — handing the Russian his first skilled defeat of their co-main occasion conflict at UFC 311.
Following his win over the weekend, too, Dvalishvili would welcome a showdown in opposition to former interim bantamweight title challenger, Cory Sandhagen.
“I’d find it irresistible [a fight with Cory Sandhagen],” Merab Dvalishvili instructed Joe Rogan throughout his post-fight interview after UFC 316. “I just like the opponent. Cory, I really like you, bro. I like your jokes recently. Hold making jokes — maintain having enjoyable, bro.”
Set to tackle all comers to his crown, Dvalishvili has as we speak confirmed his willingness to tackle the present flyweight champion, Pantoja subsequent — who returns at UFC 317.
Merab Dvalishvili welcomes Alexandre Pantoja tremendous combat after UFC 317
“I respect (Alexandre) Pantoja, Pantoja will probably be a troublesome opponent for me,” Merab Dvalishvili instructed Ariel Helwani for Uncrowned this night. “If Pantoja desires this and if UFC desires this, I’ve no downside with that.”
Set to co-headline UFC 317 later this month, Brazilian star, Pantoja takes on former interim title challenger, Kai Kara-France to defend his flyweight crown.
