Merab Dvalishvili addresses potential rematches with Petr Yan or Umar Nurmagomedov: "Whoever the UFC thinks is the most deserving"

Reigning UFC bantamweight kingpin Merab Dvalishvili is open to running it back with Petr Yan and Umar Nurmagomedov. Dvalishvili most recently fought Sean O'Malley in a rematch at UFC 316, and submitted 'Suga' in round three.

'The Machine' has already defended his 135-pound strap twice in 2025 and is now on a 13-fight UFC win streak. During the octagon interview earlier today, Dvalishvili expressed interest in fighting No. 4-ranked UFC bantamweight Cory Sandhagen next.

Later, during the post-fight presser, 'The Machine' reaffirmed that he wants to be busy and is ready to fight anyone, and is also open to potential rematches with Yan or Nurmagomedov.

"No problem. I am a champion now, and I just want to be busy, and whoever the UFC thinks is the most deserving guy, I'm fighting next. I love fighting, I'm just grateful. As long as some bullsh*t fighter doesn't [disrespect] me, I'm happy."

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Dvalishvili added:

"As long as they deserve to fight for the belt, I'm good. But at the end of the day, I'm not making the decision, the UFC makes the decision. I'm happy with that because I don't have to think about it. Whoever the UFC will put in front of me, I will fight."

Check out Merab Dvalishvili's comments below (9:14):

Dana White hints at Merab Dvalishvili vs. Cory Sandhagen before potential Umar Nurmagomedov rematch

During the post-fight presser, UFC CEO Dana White expressed interest in Merab Dvalishvili running it back with Umar Nurmagomedov. White said:

"He's definitely there and he will keep racking them up, I'm sure. The Umar rematch is interesting. It makes your legacy even better when you've ran through everybody twice."

However, that rematch with Nurmagomedov is expected after 'The Machine' makes his next title defense against Cory Sandhagen later this year. White added:

"No, I’m just saying."

Check out Dana White's comments below:

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Edited by Subham