Who is Merab Dvalishvili? How Old Is He, Where Is He From, and Which Team Does He Fight For?
Among the rising stars of the bantamweight division in recent years, the question “Who is Merab Dvalishvili” has become one of the most frequently asked by MMA enthusiasts following the UFC. Known for his relentless fighting style, unmatched cardio, and impressive winning streak, Dvalishvili stands out as a strong contender in the title race. So, who exactly is Merab Dvalishvili, how old is he, where is he from, and which team does he represent?
Early Life and Background
Merab Dvalishvili was born on January 10, 1991, in Tbilisi, Georgia. Growing up in a challenging environment and exposed to traditional combat sports, Dvalishvili developed a strong fighting spirit from an early age. He began training in judo, sambo, and traditional Georgian wrestling, building a solid foundation for his future in martial arts.
At the age of 20, he made a life-changing move to the United States, fully committing to a professional MMA career. This bold decision paved the way for his rise to international recognition.
Who is Merab Dvalishvili? MMA Career and Rise in the UFC
Merab Dvalishvili started his professional MMA career in 2014, fighting in various American regional promotions. His relentless style and work ethic soon caught the attention of the UFC, leading to his signing in 2017.
Although he faced setbacks early in his UFC journey, Dvalishvili quickly turned things around, stringing together a dominant winning streak. Victories over seasoned fighters like John Dodson, Cody Stamann, and José Aldo firmly established him as one of the top bantamweights.
Known for his record-breaking takedown attempts and non-stop pressure, “Who is Merab Dvalishvili” has become synonymous with endurance, toughness, and high-volume fighting inside the octagon.
Training Team and Camp
Merab Dvalishvili trains at Serra-Longo Fight Team, under the guidance of legendary coach Matt Serra and striking specialist Ray Longo. Alongside his close friend and former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling, Dvalishvili constantly sharpens his wrestling, grappling, and striking skills.
This professional environment has played a pivotal role in elevating his technical prowess, tactical intelligence, and overall fight IQ.
How Old is Merab Dvalishvili?
As of 2025, Merab Dvalishvili is 34 years old. In the bantamweight division, this age is considered a prime balance between peak physical conditioning and high fight intelligence. Dvalishvili remains firmly in his prime and continues to pose a serious threat to the top of the division.
Fighting Style and Strengths
Who is Merab Dvalishvili? Merab Dvalishvili is renowned for his relentless pace, record-setting takedown attempts, and ability to pressure opponents from the opening bell to the final horn. While his wrestling forms the backbone of his style, he has steadily improved his striking, making him a well-rounded threat.
His ability to outwork and outlast opponents, combined with an iron chin and rapid recovery, make him one of the most difficult puzzles to solve at bantamweight.
Future Goals
Merab Dvalishvili’s primary goal is to capture the UFC bantamweight title. Having patiently awaited his turn while his teammate Aljamain Sterling held the belt, Dvalishvili now appears ready to claim the spotlight.
Potential matchups against fighters like Sean O’Malley, Cory Sandhagen, or Marlon Vera could pave the way to his long-awaited title shot. Given his discipline, determination, and relentless work ethic, it’s only a matter of time before he gets his opportunity.
Who is Merab Dvalishvili, Relentless Journey
Emerging from Georgia to the world stage, Merab Dvalishvili exemplifies not just a fighter’s heart but a relentless spirit and impeccable sportsmanship. “Who is Merab Dvalishvili” is no longer just a question of career highlights but a celebration of resilience, hard work, and unwavering dedication to the sport.
As the bantamweight division continues to evolve, Dvalishvili is poised not only to chase gold but also to inspire future generations with his perseverance and fighting philosophy. His journey is a testament that dreams fueled by relentless effort can indeed become reality.
