Here’s a shocking truth: UFC CEO Dana White once dismissed Merab Dvalishvili as ‘too stupid’ for the UFC, even suggesting the organization wasn’t the right fit for the fighter known as ‘The Machine.’ But here’s where it gets controversial—after four title defenses in a single calendar year, White has done a complete 180, now praising Dvalishvili as ‘impressive.’ So, what changed? And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about the wins; it’s about the fighter’s unwavering loyalty to his teammates, a trait White once criticized but now seems to admire. Let’s dive into this dramatic turnaround and the lessons it holds for both fighters and fans.
Jesse Holland, a seasoned combat sports journalist with over two decades of experience, has been closely following this story. Holland, who has covered MMA, professional wrestling, and boxing since 2004, knows the ins and outs of this industry better than most. His insights into Dvalishvili’s journey highlight the complexities of balancing personal values with professional ambition—a struggle many fighters face but few navigate as successfully as Dvalishvili.
For years, White publicly criticized Dvalishvili for what he called ‘next-level stupid’ decisions, particularly the fighter’s choice to prioritize his friendship with teammate Aljamain Sterling over pursuing a title shot. Bold statement alert: White’s initial disdain for Dvalishvili’s loyalty sparked debates among fans—was it a noble stand or a career-limiting move? Fast forward to today, and White’s newfound respect for Dvalishvili raises an intriguing question: Did the fighter’s success force a change of heart, or did White simply misjudge his character?
‘It took me a minute to warm up to Merab,’ White admitted during a recent media scrum. ‘But I’m very warm now. I love that mentality.’ This shift isn’t just about Dvalishvili’s impressive record—14 straight wins, placing him fourth in UFC history—but also his relentless drive to defend his title. ‘He wants to be the first guy to defend his title four times in a year,’ White added. ‘That’s impressive.’
With a record of 21-4, Dvalishvili is just two wins away from tying Anderson Silva’s 16-fight streak. However, he’s still behind Islam Makhachev, who holds 15 consecutive wins. And this is where it gets even more intriguing: If Makhachev loses at UFC 322 in New York, Dvalishvili’s path to the top becomes clearer. But does this mean White’s praise is conditional on Dvalishvili surpassing his rivals, or is it a genuine acknowledgment of his growth?
This story isn’t just about a fighter proving his worth; it’s about the evolving dynamics between athletes and promoters, the value of loyalty in a cutthroat industry, and the power of perseverance. Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Should fighters prioritize personal values over career advancement, or is success in the UFC all about making tough choices? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—agree or disagree, this is a conversation worth having.
