Merab Dvalishvili recently found himself under fire from MMA fans after extending an offer to Sean O’Malley for a title rematch.
“The Machine” seized the UFC bantamweight title by dethroning O’Malley in the main event of Noche UFC 306 earlier this month, where he thoroughly outmatched “Suga” with his masterful grappling prowess and six takedowns throughout the bout.
Despite the outcome, O’Malley has since contested the judges’ scorecards, taking to X to argue that he actually won the fight. The former champ also disclosed that he needs surgery to address a hip injury but assured fans he’ll be back in action by next summer.
For Dvalishvili, the debate surrounding his first title defense has intensified, with many pointing to the likely #1 contender, Umar Nurmagomedov, as the rightful challenger. However, the Georgian champion has shown little enthusiasm for facing the undefeated Dagestani in his next bout.
Dvalishvili Slammed By MMA Community Over O’Malley Rematch Offer
“The Machine” recently took to X to respond to O’Malley’s repeated claims that he never truly lost their bout. Dvalishvili proposed that they settle the score once and for all by running it back at UFC 309, set for November 15 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. He went on to say that after silencing O’Malley’s doubts, he’s ready to take on whoever the UFC throws his way next.
“I hear O’Malley thinks he won the fight and is looking for a rematch,” Dvalishvili tweeted. “If he wants it, he can have it. Let’s do it on November 16th at the Garden, and then I’ll still defend the title against whoever the UFC wants me to fight next. What do you think? @SugaSeanMMA”
Dvalishvili’s proposal sparked an array of reactions across the MMA community, with many speculating that the newly crowned champion might be attempting to dodge a showdown with Nurmagomedov. Even O’Malley and Nurmagomedov added their voices to the chorus of disapproval.
O’Malley fired back, revealing he’s scheduled for hip surgery on October 3, and urged Dvalishvili to take on Nurmagomedov in the meantime.
“Getting surgery Oct 3rd. I fought you with one hip and still beat you. Round 1,3,5. I’m the champ. Fight Umnar.”
Meanwhile, Nurmagomedov doubled down on his accusations, claiming that Dvalishvili is avoiding a potential clash with him.
“He’s ready to fight with anyone except Umar Nurmagomedov.”
One fan chimed in, backing the Dagestani’s claim.
“You want anyone but Umar. Paper champ.”
Amidst the flood of negative comments, one fan stood out, applauding “The Machine” for embracing the role of an active champion.
“Honestly, you might be the craziest champion we’ve had, but at least you’re going to be active, so you’re fine by me.”
Another fan dismissed Dvalishvili’s proposal, branding it an unfounded offer.
“You know he’s getting surgery… Baseless offer.”
One fan jokingly declared that he’d like to be the next to challenge the Georgian champion.
“If I asked real nice, could I fight you for the belt Merab?”
“Umnar is not that scary, bro.”
“No. Stop ducking Umar. F**king lame.”
“The way you’ve been trying to duck Umar is crazzy.”
“No one wants to watch that again, Merab…least of all your boss, Dana”
