TLDR
- Merab Dvalishvili jokingly called himself a ‘decision machine’ when asked how he’ll beat Petr Yan
- The UFC bantamweight champion has won 16 of his 21 career victories by decision
- Dvalishvili has only two UFC finishes: a TKO of Marlon Moraes and submission of Sean O’Malley
- He will defend his title against Petr Yan in a trilogy bout at UFC 333 on October 24
- The fight takes place at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi
Sources: middleeasy.com | sherdog.com
UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili is taking a lighthearted approach to questions about his fighting style ahead of his trilogy bout with Petr Yan. When asked how he plans to beat Yan at UFC 333, Dvalishvili jokingly referred to himself as a “decision machine.”
The comment references Dvalishvili’s record of wins that rarely end in finishes. Of his 21 career victories, 16 have come by decision rather than knockout or submission.
👀Merab Dvalishvili says his corner was giving him advice against Yan that they hadn’t even practiced in training.
"In my last fight, my corner was telling me something completely different. They were telling me to attack the body, but we hadn’t worked on that at all. That… pic.twitter.com/DFqbf7bRoD
— MMA Pros Pick (@MMA_PROS_PICK_) October 18, 2026
Dvalishvili’s UFC Finishing Record
Dvalishvili has recorded only two finishes during his entire UFC career. The first came in 2021 when he stopped Marlon Moraes with a technical knockout.
His second finish occurred during his title reign when he submitted Sean O’Malley in his second title defense last year. That submission victory was part of the Georgian fighter’s path to becoming bantamweight champion.
“There are three ways to win: knockout, submission, or decision,” Dvalishvili said in a recent interview. “I’m a decision machine.”
The self-deprecating humor shows Dvalishvili is aware of criticism about his low finish rate. Despite the jokes, his grinding style has proven effective in the octagon.
UFC 333 Trilogy Fight Details
Dvalishvili will defend his bantamweight title against Petr Yan on October 24 at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. The fight marks the third meeting between the two fighters in what has become a trilogy.
Yan previously held the bantamweight title and represents one of the division’s top challenges. The Russian fighter is known for his technical striking and well-rounded skill set.
Dvalishvili built his reputation on relentless pressure and wrestling ability. His cardio and pace have overwhelmed many opponents even when fights go the full distance.
The champion’s style relies on constant forward movement and takedown attempts. He typically wears down opponents over three or five rounds rather than hunting for early finishes.
Fans and analysts have debated whether Dvalishvili should pursue more finishes. His record shows he wins fights consistently but rarely stops opponents before the final bell.
The Georgian fighter seems unbothered by these discussions. His recent comments suggest he accepts his identity as a decision-oriented fighter.
Dvalishvili’s approach has earned him the UFC bantamweight championship. His willingness to joke about his style indicates confidence in his methods despite outside opinions.
The UFC 333 event takes place in Abu Dhabi, continuing the promotion’s international schedule. The bantamweight title fight will serve as one of the main attractions on the October 24 card.
Yan enters the trilogy bout as a former champion looking to reclaim the title. Both fighters have extensive experience at the highest level of the sport.
