Usman mocks the UFC champion’s reluctance to face Khabib’s relative

Becoming a champion in the world’s biggest mixed martial arts promotion is no small feat. UFC Bantamweight Champion Merab Dvalishvili knows this feeling well. 

Kamaru Usman Criticizes UFC Champion

Merab Dvalishvili’s rivalry with Team Khabib, especially against rising bantamweight Umar Nurmagomedov, has become a hot topic in the MMA community. As 2024 comes to an end and 2025 approaches, the bantamweight division is gearing up for its next big showdown at UFC 311, just weeks away.

Initially, Dvalishvili seemed unwilling to grant Nurmagomedov a title shot, claiming the Dagestani hadn’t earned it yet. However, former UFC Welterweight Champion Kamaru Usman believes that for Dvalishvili to cement his legacy, he must face the undefeated Nurmagomedov.

Kamaru Usman’s Take on UFC 311’s Co-Main Event

Merab Dvalishvili, nicknamed “The Machine,” has not been on good terms with Umar Nurmagomedov. Their rivalry escalated after Dvalishvili alleged he was denied entry into the UFC Performance Institute because Nurmagomedov was training there. Security reportedly kept the two fighters apart, which Dvalishvili deemed unnecessary and disrespectful.

While this animosity adds intrigue to their clash at UFC 311, Kamaru Usman believes Dvalishvili is taking things too personally. Despite an impressive 11-fight winning streak and a championship belt, Usman feels Dvalishvili needs an opponent like Nurmagomedov to boost his stardom. Speaking on the ‘Simple MMA’ YouTube channel, Usman shared his perspective:

“I think Merab is taking this too personally. You need Umar. If you want to be that household name, the next box-office star, you need the right dance partner. And right now, that dance partner is Umar Nurmagomedov.”

With Umar Nurmagomedov boasting an unblemished 18-0 record, Usman insists that this is the perfect matchup to elevate both fighters’ profiles.

The Rivalry Heats Up Ahead of UFC 311

The stakes for UFC 311 couldn’t be higher, and tensions between Dvalishvili and Nurmagomedov are reaching a boiling point. In a bold move, Nurmagomedov, known as the “Young Eagle,” issued a stern warning to Dvalishvili, further fueling the animosity between the two camps. Their upcoming showdown is shaping up to be one of the most intense bouts of the year.

Former UFC champion Daniel Cormier (DC) has also weighed in, noting that Dvalishvili’s relentless fighting style makes him a challenging opponent for anyone. Speaking about the fight, Cormier said:

“Merab Dvalishvili is an absolute beast. His nickname is ‘The Machine,’ and that’s exactly what he is. His speed, pressure, cardio, and ability to spam takedowns make him a nightmare matchup.”

Despite his praise for Dvalishvili, Cormier acknowledged Nurmagomedov’s undefeated streak as a significant factor. The Dagestani fighter is determined to add another championship to Team Khabib’s legacy.

Who Will Triumph in UFC 311?

As fans eagerly await this high-stakes bout, many are divided over who will emerge victorious. Will Merab Dvalishvili defend his title and continue his reign as “The Machine”? Or will Umar Nurmagomedov prove his worth and claim the bantamweight crown, further solidifying Team Khabib’s dominance?

With both fighters possessing elite wrestling skills, this five-round contest could turn into a grappling war. The UFC 311 co-main event is set to be an electrifying encounter, leaving fans debating: Will Dvalishvili’s relentless pace and takedown strategy prevail, or will Nurmagomedov’s undefeated record stand tall?