In the tense build-up to UFC 299’s main event, Merab Dvalishvili stands poised for a potential breakthrough. Should any unforeseen circumstances arise, he’s primed to seize his long-anticipated chance at championship glory.
Set to unfold on March 9 at the Kaseya Center in Miami, this pay-per-view extravaganza is headlined by a bantamweight title clash pitting champion Sean O’Malley against challenger Marlon Vera.
Dvalishvili (17-4 MMA, 10-2 UFC) is gearing up to journey to Florida, fully committed to hitting the scales on Friday morning and standing by as the backup fighter, ready to step into the spotlight if called upon. Oren Hodak of KO Reps confirmed this development to MMA Junkie on Tuesday evening.
It’s become customary for the UFC to designate backup fighters for title bouts in recent times, although their services have yet to be required.
Dvalishvili is currently riding a remarkable 10-fight winning streak, including impressive victories over former UFC titleholders in his last three outings. His most recent triumph came at UFC 298 less than three weeks ago, where he decisively defeated former two-division champion Henry Cejudo, solidifying his status as the top contender.
“Whoever becomes the champion, I’ll be ready to face him next,” Dvalishvili asserted during his post-fight interview inside the octagon. “I’ve been calling out Sean O’Malley since 2018… My sole focus now is the championship.”
Dubbed “The Machine,” Dvalishvili stands prepared to step in at a moment’s notice to pursue his title aspirations should any issues arise with either O’Malley (17-1 MMA, 9-1 UFC) or Vera (23-8-1 MMA, 15-7 UFC) during fight week. Notably, neither of the main event fighters has missed weight throughout their UFC careers.
✈️ booked @MerabDvalishvil is headed to Miami tmrw for #UFC299 as the official title fight back up. Let's make it a pink panty night! #MiamiMerab pic.twitter.com/Eg0nwTyRFm
— KOreps (@ko_reps) March 6, 2024
The excitement is palpable as @MerabDvalishvil jets off to Miami tomorrow for #UFC299, officially designated as the backup for the title fight. Let’s make it an unforgettable night! #MiamiMerab
— KOreps (@ko_reps) March 6, 2024
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