Dana White had loads of reward for Merab Dvalishvili after UFC 323, however one phrase was sufficient to get his level throughout.
On Saturday, Dvalishvili tried to set the file for many UFC title defenses in a 12 months. ‘The Machine’ was by no means in a position to accomplish that feat as he lastly acquired his match on Petr Yan. In truth, Dvalishvili defeated Yan by unanimous choice in 2023, however the rematch went very in a different way.
Yan defeated Dvalishvili by unanimous choice to regain the UFC bantamweight title. After the sport, White posted a picture of Dvalishvili’s face on social media with a one-word caption:
Dana White simply shared a photograph of Merab Dvalishvili’s face after the sport. #UFC323 pic.twitter.com/cl8xkvWaCc
— Nolan King (@mma_kings) December 7, 2025
“Savage,” White wrote within the caption.
In a post-fight interview with Joe Rogan, Dvalishvili spoke in regards to the finish of his 135-pound title reign. Dvalishvili has his sights set on a trilogy of battles.
“We tried to play an fascinating recreation, however right this moment we misplaced,” Dvalishvili mentioned. “It was a foul recreation right this moment. Congratulations to him, however I need a rematch. I need it over again.”
Dvalishvili issued a brief assertion on his X account.
https://twitter.com/MerabDvalishvil/standing/1997571322654908640
“Tonight wasn’t a particular night time for me, however I am rooting for you stronger than ever,” Dvalishvili wrote. “Thanks to your help.”
It stays to be seen what’s going to occur subsequent within the UFC bantamweight title battle. “The Machine” desires a rematch, however the UFC 324 card will characteristic a pivotal 135-pound battle. Umar Nurmagomedov will face Deiveson Figueiredo. Nurmagomedov took to social media and vowed to develop into the primary contender after January twenty fourth.
Earlier than UFC 323, Dvalishvili instructed Newsweek Sports activities that he plans to stay lively in 2026. It stays to be seen whether or not he’ll take a break after dropping to Yan. Go to BJPenn.com for the most recent UFC bantamweight title images.
