Merab Dvalishvili, reigning UFC bantamweight champion from Las Vegas, is on the edge of inscribing his name into the annals of history. December 6 at T-Mobile Arena, “The Machine,” who trains locally out of Syndicate MMA, is set to headline UFC 323 against former champion Petr Yan.
Although the fight itself is a much-awaited rematch, the stakes are historical: Dvalishvili is trying to become the first UFC fighter ever to have successfully defended a title four times inside a single calendar year.
Dvalishvili’s commitment to an active fight schedule is the highlight of this endeavor, a significant change from the usual practice where champions fight once or twice a year.
Merab Dvalishvili proved his top-notch level in defeating Cory Sandhagen in October, powered by an incredible 14-fight winning streak.
Dana White, president of the UFC, has even been won over by the champion’s aggressive fighting strategy. Although with a historically controversial relationship, stemming from Dvalishvili’s first reluctance to fight his near friend and former champion Aljamain Sterling, White has enthusiastically supported his latest push for a fourth defense.
White complimented Dvalishvili’s attitude, saying he was “absolutely” the greatest UFC bantamweight ever.”
Dvalishvili’s Date with Destiny: The Ultimate Pay-Per-View
Beyond Dvalishvili’s record effort, UFC 323 is important for the promotion’s whole terrain. Under the current ESPN broadcast rights agreement, the event represents the last pay-per-view planned.
Also Read: Michael Morales Welcomes Carlos Prates Showdown on Road to UFC Gold
Starting in 2026, the UFC will move its premium events to Paramount+ as part of a major seven-year, $7.7 billion contract, thereby phasing out the conventional PPV model, at least for the near future.
Defeating Petr Yan will formally surpass Sterling, his training partner, in three successful bantamweight title defenses.
On Saturday night, the champion has the chance to establish a historical milestone and provide a clear case for his ranking as the greatest fighter in the division.