Dvalishvili Clarifies Volkanovski Stance, Says He’ll Accept UFC Offer
The bantamweight titleholder remains focused on Petr Yan at UFC 323, stressing respect for the featherweight champion.
Overview
- Merab Dvalishvili said he will not call out Alexander Volkanovski but would accept a champion‑vs‑champion bout if the UFC proposes it.
- He emphasized respect for Volkanovski and reiterated his priority is defending the bantamweight title.
- Dvalishvili is booked to rematch Petr Yan at UFC 323 on Dec. 6 in Las Vegas, with reporting noting he could set a single‑year defense record.
- He noted his 22‑pound cut to 135 pounds is taxing and suggested a move to 145 could let him compete far more often, joking he could fight every two weeks.
- Coverage highlights fan claims that he was ducking Volkanovski, and adds that the UFC’s planned 2026 move to Paramount/CBS may incentivize marquee cross‑division fights.