Team Khabib sends cold warning after Merab Dvalishvili stays mum on Umar Nurmagomedov after title win

Merab Dvalishvili dominantly won the bantamweight title, defeating Sean O'Malley at UFC 306. However, he was particularly deflective when quizzed about the prospect of taking on the dangerous Umar Nurmagomedov in his first title defense.

Suffice it to say, the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov's camp took notice and clapped back at the Georgian for seemingly keeping mum when Umar's name was brought up.

When commentator Joe Rogan asked Dvalishvili during his post-fight octagon interview at Noche UFC if Nurmagomedov would be his first title defense, 'The Machine' sounded dismissive.

The 33-year-old stated that he would take a decision regarding his next fight only after consulting with the promotion's CEO Dana White.

Moreover, during an interview in the lead-up to UFC 306, Dvalishvili dismissed the Russian as a credible title challenger, claiming Deiveson Figueiredo was more deserving of the opportunity.

Catch Merab Dvalishvili's comments below:

The newly crowned champion's continued dismissive tone against the No.2-ranked contender seems to have hit a nerve with Team Khabib. In a recent Instagram story, Umar's brother Usman, the reigning Bellator lightweight champion, sent a cold warning to 'The Machine', writing:

"You can run, but you can't hide. Soon Umar will become undisputed, undefeated bantamweight champion, and will hold this belt for as long as he wants."

In a statement given to Match TV, the bantamweight's manager Rizvan Magomedov also chimed in, claiming that his client will be a "stylistic nightmare" for Dvalishvili:

"I don't think Merab will be given much of a choice [in accepting a fight with Nurmagomedov]. I understand his reaction, He came a long way and [k]now[s] the fight win Umar is a stylistic nightmare for him."

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How does Umar Nurmagomedov match up against Merab Dvalishvili?

Merab Dvalishvili and Umar Nurmagomedov possess similar skill sets. Both are primarily wrestlers who also boast a credible standup game.

While Dvalishvili is known to use his grappling to secure control time to facilitate opportunities for ground and pound, the Dagestani is also proficient in getting submissions. As such, Nurmagomedov holds more finishes on his resume compared to the bantamweight kingpin.

However, 'The Machine' has registered wins against many of the divisional greats, including former champion Jose Aldo, Henry Cejudo, and Petr Yan.

Catch Merab Dvalishvili's highlights below:

Meanwhile, apart from his win against Cory Sandhagen, Nurmagomedov hasn't fought any of the current top-five contenders in the division.