UFC president Dana White believes Merab Dvalishvili could soon be considered the greatest bantamweight in the promotion’s history.
Speaking after UFC 316, where Dvalishvili submitted Sean O’Malley in the third round of their title rematch, White praised the Georgian’s dominance.
“Sean O’Malley came in 100 percent ready — mentally, physically, everything — and Merab finished him,” White said. “He’s definitely in the conversation as the best bantamweight of all time.”
Dvalishvili overwhelmed O’Malley from the start at the Prudential Center, repeatedly taking him down before forcing the tap. It was a much more decisive finish than their 2024 bout, when Dvalishvili outpointed O’Malley to win the belt.
Since claiming the title at UFC 306 in September, Dvalishvili has now defended it twice. His first defence came against Umar Nurmagomedov in January — a five-round decision that tested his cardio and control.
Against O’Malley, he showed finishing power to go with his pressure-heavy approach.
White confirmed that Cory Sandhagen is likely to be the next challenger, but added that another fight with Nurmagomedov could also happen. “The Umar rematch is interesting, and running through guys twice only makes your legacy stronger,” he said.
Dvalishvili (20-4 MMA, 13-2 UFC) has emerged as one of the most dominant forces at 135 pounds, with his relentless grappling and conditioning posing serious problems for every opponent.
His goal is to defend the title four times in one calendar year — a feat that would put him in rare company and further boost his all-time credentials.
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