UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili is facing criticism for his upcoming title defense against Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311. Former champion Aljamain Sterling argues that champions should have more control over their fight scheduling. Concerns have also been raised about Dvalishvili's ability to stay calm under pressure, given his past reactions to fan and opponent provocations.
When UFC men’s bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili defends his title against Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311 on January 18, he’ll be almost exactly four months removed from winning the title at Noche UFC in September.
Dvalishvili’s friend, training partner and former 135-pound champion Aljamain Sterling thinks the former was rushed into the title defense.“For a title fight? I understand having to do that if you’re a challenger, but as a champion, you shouldn’t be relegated to those type of stipulations. It’s just not right. Then it leaves a bad taste in your mouth as in, ‘Why did I work so hard to get to this position to call the shots or some of the shots?’ And you’re not even getting a fair shake in it.
Once Nurmagomedov and Abdelaziz launched an all-out campaign to irritate Dvalishvili, it was clear it was just a matter of time before the champion buckled to the pressure. Helwani and Sterling both voiced their concerns about Dvalishvili keeping his cool before and during the fight with Nurmagomedov.From the sounds of it, keeping Dvalishvili on an even keel might be the biggest challenge of the training camp.
In addition to the two title fights, former light heavyweight champions Jiri Prochazka and Jamahal Hill will battle in a key fight in the 205-pound division. Also, former ONE champion Reinier de Ridder continues his quest to push himself into UFC title contention. RDR takes on Kevin Holland. Also, heavyweight contender Jailton Almeida clashes with Serghei Spivac to round out the excellent main card.Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.
UFC Merab Dvalishvili Umar Nurmagomedov Aljamain Sterling Title Defense
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
UFC News: Merab Dvalishvili Reponds to Altercation That Led to Fan Getting PunchedUFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili has spoken out about a physical altercation at UFC 310 that led to a fan getting punched.
Read more »
Sean O’Malley on Merab Dvalishvili vs. Umar Nurmagomedov, Who He's Backing at UFC 311Sean O'Malley reacts to Merab Dvalishvili vs. Umar Nurmagomedov getting booked for UFC 311.
Read more »
Aljamain Sterling: UFC Champ Dvalishvili Denying Nurmagomedov 'on Principle'Sterling thinks it's 'hilarious' that fans thank Dvalishvili is ducking Nurmagomedov.
Read more »
UFC Champion Is Forcing The UFC To Make A Tough DecisionBrian Mazique has covered combat sports and video games since 2011. In addition to Forbes, Mazique has written for Bleacher Report and Ring Magazine and creates content for multiple YouTube channels–including the self-titled Brian Mazique channel focusing on boxing.
Read more »
Dvalishvili Faces Nurmagomedov in UFC 311 Co-Main EventMerab Dvalishvili returns to the Octagon against undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov in a fight with shorter notice than ideal. Former champion Aljamain Sterling comments on the situation.
Read more »
Dana White Unveils Championship Double-Header for UFC 311 in Los AngelesUFC CEO Dana White announced two title fights: Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan & Merab Dvalishvili vs. Umar Nurmagomedov.
Read more »