Why Merab Dvalishvili Belongs in the GOAT Conversation at Bantamweight

The Backbone: Relentless Wrestling, Pace & Record Takedowns

Merab’s skill set is built on a few foundational pillars that few in bantamweight match: elite cardio, non-stop pressure, and relentless takedown volume. He holds the UFC record for most takedowns landed, having eclipsed even Georges St. Pierre’s mark.

That kind of grappling dominance in the 135-lb division is rare. Many bantamweights are known for striking or game diversity—but very few drag fights into deep waters and keep control for five rounds. His wrestling foundation gives him a unique floor: even if striking is neutralized, he can overwhelm opponents with endurance and wrestling. That consistency is a key marker for a GOAT.

Record & Consistency: The Numbers Behind the Hype

As of now, Merab’s professional MMA record stands at 20-4-0. In UFC, he’s built an enviable run: several consecutive wins over high-caliber opponents (e.g. Petr Yan, Henry Cejudo, José Aldo)

He’s not a finisher machine—most of his wins come by decision—but that in itself is telling: he wins on control, consistency, depth. The ability to win dozens of tough decisions without letting his edge fade is itself a testament to peak conditioning and fight IQ.

Also, his momentum as champion has been unrelenting: multiple title defences, high activity, continuous challenges. That sustained dominance matters for GOAT conversations.

Key Matchups That Define His Case

O’Malley vs Merab

This is personal. Merab first dethroned Sean O’Malley at UFC 306 (Sept 2024) by unanimous decision to take the bantamweight belt. He then defended against O’Malley again at UFC 316 via submission (north–south choke, round 3 at 4:42) . That finish against someone known for sharp striking showed Merab isn’t just a grinder—he’s evolving.

Each O’Malley fight presents a clash: dynamic striking vs unrelenting pressure. Merab’s victories over him cement that he can overcome stylistic challenges.

Merab vs Umar (Nurmagomedov)

n his defence at UFC 311, Merab faced undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov, who came in with hype and momentum. The fight was grueling, going 5 rounds, and Merab won via unanimous decision.

In that match, Merab stretched his gas tank, constantly pressured, and effectively controlled positions in late rounds. Some judged it a very close fight: Umar took early rounds; Merab dominated latter rounds to secure the nod.

Moreover, reports revealed he was battling health issues during camp—staph infections, open wounds—yet he persevered. That resilience under duress elevates the narrative. It’s not just wins—it’s overcoming adversity to keep the crown.

Counterarguments & Limitations (and Why He Still Stands Out)

No GOAT case is bulletproof. Some common critiques:

• Lack of finishes: Critics will point to Merab’s relatively low KO/sub rate. But in bantamweight history, so many top names win by decision. His durability and control offset the absence of highlight finishes.
• Comparative champions: Names like Dominick Cruz, T.J. Dillashaw, Aljamain Sterling, Petr Yan all have highlight moments. But Merab is building a long arc of consistent dominance.
• Late arrival as champ: He didn’t seize the belt early in his career; but once he got it, he’s defended it with ferocity. That trajectory matters less if he continues accumulating defences and legacy wins.

In fact, by contrast, his ability to remain active, take on top challengers back to back, and adapt (as seen in the O’Malley rematch) give him an edge in the modern era.

Projection: Can He Cement GOAT Status?

To fully claim “bantamweight ufc goat” status, Merab will need a few more things:

1. Longer title reign / more defences — The more he defends successfully, the harder it is to argue against him.
2. Signature finish(s) — Even one or two finishes in marquee fights would bolster his narrative.
3. Beating fresh contenders — As new challengers emerge, continuous dominance over new styles will test and validate him.
4. Pound-for-pound respect — If he cements a top-3 P4P ranking consistently, that frames his bantamweight legacy in a broader context.

Given his trajectory, it’s entirely plausible that within a few years, he closes the gap (or overtakes) names often cited in GOAT debates.