UFC fighters react to Merab Dvalishvili being ambushed by Usman Nurmagomedov's entourage

mmaweekly |  

It seems the entire combat sports world is talking about the recent Merab Dvalishvili controversy.

Sharpening his tools at Serra-Longo Fight Team and Syndicate MMA, it didn’t take long for Dvalishvili to become one of the UFC’s best and most lovable assets. While his fight style may not resonate with the casuals, the Georgian has a gas tank like no other. A true warrior who, like his namesake, has machine-like, unnatural cardio that often overwhelms opponents. Even when he’s not competing, the former UFC bantamweight king knows how to keep his name in the spotlight. However, this time it’s for the wrong reasons.

Merab Dvalishvili was caught in a public brawl with Usman Nurmagomedov and others who ambushed him in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday. Dvalishvili was in the Middle East preparing for his RAF return, but was dragged into a fight that landed him in police custody for questioning.

The altercation was well documented, with lengthy footage released shortly after the events unfolded. In the wake of the video surfacing online, fellow MMA fighters had much to say.

Many sided with Merab Dvalishvili, believing the video proved he was only defending himself in the face of danger. Ilia Topuria led the way in support of his fellow countryman with a verbal attack on Team Nurmagomedov, saying:

“Usman has reportedly been detained, along with the cowards who were with him. And these are the same people who dare to preach about humility and respect? What a disgrace. A bunch of absolute cowards.”

“I always thought you were a bunch of mediocre individuals. Now you’ve removed every last doubt. Honor, respect, and humility aren’t words you preach. They’re values you live by. And you’ve shown none of them.”

Sean Strickland and other high-profile MMA stars followed in support of Merab Dvalishvili.

Not everyone was on Merab Dvalishvili’s side. Islam Makhachev defended Usman Nurmagomedov. Makhachev insisted that Usman was only protecting his friend, whom Dvalishvili slapped earlier in the year.

“To those who are now condemning Usman and the guys and insulting them: why were you silent when Merab hit a Dagestani wrestler for no reason and insulted his honor? The man approached him to talk with no ill intent,” Makhachev wrote.

“What happened today was started by Merab in his own homeland when he took it upon himself to hit a guest and insult his mother.”