Merab Dvalishvili, widely known as “The Machine,” has become one of the most respected and relentless forces in the UFC bantamweight division. His journey from humble beginnings in Georgia to UFC champion is a testament to his work ethic, discipline, and unwavering determination. Let’s break down everything you need to know about Merab Dvalishvili, from his personal life to career milestones, financials, and more.
Merab Dvalishvili’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Merab Dvalishvili |
| Nickname | The Machine |
| Date of Birth | January 10, 1991 |
| Age | 34 years |
| Place of Birth | Tbilisi, Georgia |
| College | Degree in Physical Education, college in Georgia |
| Religion | Eastern Orthodox Christian |
| Nationality | Georgian-American |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (168 cm) |
| Turned Pro | January 24, 2014 |
| Net Worth | ~$2 million |
| Salary | $500,000 base for recent title fights; up to $2.39 million per fight |
| Spouse | Not married |
| Relationship | Single |
| Children | N/A |
| @merab.dvalishvili |
Early Career
Merab Dvalishvili was born and raised in Tbilisi, Georgia, where he started training in judo, sambo, and wrestling at a young age primarily for self-defense. He moved to the United States at 21 to pursue MMA, working in construction to support himself. Dvalishvili made his professional debut in 2014 at Ring of Combat 47, initially facing setbacks but quickly rebounded, winning the Ring of Combat bantamweight title in 2017 before signing with the UFC.
Professional Career
After joining the UFC in 2017, Dvalishvili faced a tough start, dropping two of his first three fights. However, he soon established himself as a dominant force with a relentless wrestling style and unmatched cardio. Training with the Serra-Longo Fight Team alongside elite fighters like Aljamain Sterling, he racked up a 12-fight win streak, defeating top names such as Marlon Moraes, José Aldo, Petr Yan, Henry Cejudo, and Sean O’Malley. In September 2024, he captured the UFC bantamweight title by defeating O’Malley at UFC 306, then defended it against Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311, setting the all-time UFC takedown record in the process. Dvalishvili’s high-pressure approach and ability to outwork opponents have made him a fan favorite and one of the most respected champions in the sport.
Merab Dvalishvili’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Merab Dvalishvili’s net worth is estimated at around $2 million. This includes his fight purses, bonuses, pay-per-view shares, and a growing portfolio of endorsements and business ventures. His earnings have increased significantly since becoming UFC champion.
Fight Purses
| Event/Fight | Base Salary | Total Payout (with bonuses/PPV) | Notes |
| UFC 306 vs. Sean O’Malley | $500,000 | ~$1,430,000 | Won title, PPV share |
| UFC 311 vs. Umar Nurmagomedov | $500,000 | $550,000+ | Title defense, FOTN bonus |
| UFC 316 vs. Sean O’Malley (rematch) | $2,390,000 | $2,440,000+ | Career-high, POTN bonus |
| UFC 298 vs. Henry Cejudo | $221,000 | ||
| UFC Fight Night vs. Petr Yan | $211,000 | ||
| UFC 278 vs. José Aldo | $204,000 | ||
| UFC 266 vs. Marlon Moraes | $136,000 | ||
| UFC debut vs. Frankie Saenz | $14,000 |
Endorsements
- Monster Energy (major global MMA sponsor)
- Stake (gambling company)
- StarPro Combat (sports gear)
- Nabeglavi (mineral water, Georgia)
- GA Logistics LLC (transportation)
- Syndicate MMA (gym/brand)
- Pomona Organic Products (fruit juices)
- Panini America (sports collectibles)
- ABC Hyundai Las Vegas (car dealership)
- Flash Motors Corporation (electric vehicles)
- Desert 215 Superstore (auto dealership)
- 31BetSocial and Casino Beats (gambling)
- Athlete Studio (e-commerce store collaboration)
- Setanta Sports, Aviator Spribe, Takedown Shop
Career Records
| Opponent | Result | Event | Method | Date |
| Umar Nurmagomedov | Win (Title Def.) | UFC 311 | Decision (unanimous) | Jan 18, 2025 |
| Sean O’Malley | Win (Title Win) | UFC 306 | Decision (unanimous) | Sep 14, 2024 |
| Henry Cejudo | Win | UFC 298 | Decision (unanimous) | Feb 17, 2024 |
| Petr Yan | Win | UFC Fight Night | Decision (unanimous) | Mar 11, 2023 |
| José Aldo | Win | UFC 278 | Decision (unanimous) | Aug 20, 2022 |
| Marlon Moraes | Win | UFC 266 | TKO (punches) | Sep 25, 2021 |
| Cody Stamann | Win | UFC on ESPN | Decision (unanimous) | May 1, 2021 |
| Ricky Simón | Loss | UFC Fight Night | Technical Submission | Apr 21, 2018 |
| Frankie Saenz | Loss | UFC Fight Night | Decision (split) | Dec 9, 2017 |
FAQs
1. Who is Merab Dvalishvili?
Merab Dvalishvili is a Georgian and American professional mixed martial artist who competes in the UFC bantamweight division and is the current UFC Bantamweight Champion. He is the first Georgian-born champion in UFC history.
2. What is Merab Dvalishvili’s MMA record?
Merab Dvalishvili holds a professional MMA record of 20 wins and 4 losses, with 3 wins by knockout and 2 by submission. He has never been stopped in his professional career.
3. How did Merab Dvalishvili become UFC Bantamweight Champion?
Dvalishvili won the UFC Bantamweight Championship on September 14, 2024, by defeating Sean O’Malley via unanimous decision at UFC 306. He has since defended the title twice.
4. What is Merab Dvalishvili’s fighting style?
Dvalishvili is known for his relentless pace, chain wrestling, and high-level grappling. He uses constant pressure, aggressive striking to set up takedowns, and has exceptional cardio, often overwhelming opponents with volume and tempo.
5. Where was Merab Dvalishvili born and raised?
He was born and raised in Tbilisi, Georgia, where he began training in judo, sambo, and wrestling at a young age for self-defense.
6. How old is Merab Dvalishvili?
Born on January 10, 1991, Dvalishvili is 34 years old.
7. What notable fighters has Merab Dvalishvili defeated?
Dvalishvili has notable wins over former champions and contenders, including José Aldo, Petr Yan, Henry Cejudo, and Sean O’Malley.
8. What team does Merab Dvalishvili train with?
He trains with the Serra-Longo Fight Team, alongside fighters like Aljamain Sterling.
9. What are Merab Dvalishvili’s physical stats?
Dvalishvili is 5’6″ (168 cm) tall with a reach of 68.1 inches (173 cm).
10. Has Merab Dvalishvili ever been stopped or knocked out?
No, Dvalishvili has never been stopped or knocked out in his professional MMA career. All his losses have come by decision or submission.