The UFC world is buzzing with anticipation as two fighters edge closer to rewriting history, but one man stands in their way, ready to claim the throne for himself. Merab Dvalishvili, the reigning bantamweight champion, is not just defending his title—he’s chasing a legacy. With Islam Makhachev just one win away from surpassing Anderson Silva’s legendary record, Dvalishvili is hot on their heels, aiming to etch his name into the annals of UFC greatness. But here’s where it gets controversial: can Dvalishvili truly dethrone the greats, or is he biting off more than he can chew? Let’s dive in.
This Saturday in Las Vegas, Dvalishvili steps into the Octagon for UFC 323, facing Petr Yan in a highly anticipated rematch. This bout marks Dvalishvili’s fourth title defense of 2025—an unprecedented feat for any UFC champion in a single calendar year. Nicknamed ‘The Machine,’ Dvalishvili is no stranger to shattering records, having already become the first fighter to achieve 100 takedowns in the UFC this year. But his sights are set on an even bigger prize: the all-time win streak record held by Silva and Makhachev.
And this is the part most people miss: Dvalishvili’s resume is nothing short of elite. His last seven wins include victories over Cory Sandhagen, Sean O’Malley (twice), Umar Nurmagomedov, Henry Cejudo, Petr Yan, and Jose Aldo. That’s a who’s who of bantamweight dominance. If he secures another win, he’ll be just one victory away from tying the record. But as Dvalishvili himself admits, ‘It’s easy to say, it’s hard to do.’
Meanwhile, Makhachev’s journey to the top has been equally impressive. After becoming the welterweight king at UFC 322, he tied Silva’s record of 16 consecutive wins. But Dvalishvili’s relentless pace could challenge Makhachev’s bid to claim the record outright. ‘I work so hard to keep continuing this great journey,’ Dvalishvili told Stake, hinting at his determination to surpass both legends.
Here’s the controversial question: Is Merab Dvalishvili the greatest bantamweight of all time? His record speaks volumes, but Yan, his Russian challenger, isn’t convinced. Yan has been itching for revenge since their one-sided bout in 2023 and sees UFC 323 as his chance to derail Dvalishvili’s momentum. With only Marlon Moraes having knocked Dvalishvili down in the Octagon, can Yan become the second fighter to do so and spoil the champ’s record-breaking dreams?
The UFC 323 card is stacked, featuring another title fight between Alexandre Pantoja and Joshua Van, who aims to become the promotion’s second-youngest champion. But all eyes will be on Dvalishvili vs. Yan—a clash that could redefine the bantamweight division.
What do you think? Can Dvalishvili surpass Silva and Makhachev, or will Yan halt his ascent? Is he the greatest bantamweight ever, or is it too soon to crown him? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the debate. The Octagon awaits.
