Merab Dvalishvili unsure of next challenge after UFC 311 title defense

INGLEWOOD, Calif. – Merab Dvalishvili thinks he’s running out of opponents at 135 pounds.

After completing his first title defense, the UFC bantamweight champion struggled to find a clear next challenger for him. Dvalishvili (19-4 MMA, 12-2 UFC) defeated Umar Nurmagomedov (18-1 MMA, 6-1 UFC) by unanimous decision in the co-main event of Saturday’s UFC 311, which took place at Intuit Dome.

Although this is his first title defense, Dvalishvili is now on an impressive 12-fight winning streak. He holds victories over the top three contenders in the division’s official rankings and has beaten four former champions, narrowing his options outside of rematches.

“I want to fight with the best guys in the division, like I always do,” Dvalishvili said at the UFC 311 post-fight press conference. “It excites me to take on the next best challenge . That’s what excites me: taking on the next best challenge. I think I beat everyone in this division, so we’ll see who the next best challenge is.

Dvalishvili is willing to fight whoever the UFC sees fit, but he suggested a rematch with Sean O’Malley, who he beat in September. Dvalishvili believes there are still some doubters about his O’Malley championship victory and would like to leave no doubt who is the better fighter.

“Sean O’Malley was complaining about something and he definitely has a chance,” Dvalishvili said. “We know it can knock people out if it lands on you. He has a great chance, so I also see it as a challenge. Myabe, he is making some changes this time, and we will face each other this time, and it will be a good fight

“But I’m the champion now, and they have to call me. I’m ready to come back quickly, as soon as the UFC wants me to come back. I respect the UFC’s decision now and I will fight the next one.

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 311.