Exclusive: Merab Dvalishvili's coach discusses potential return timeline for 'The Machine' after Noche UFC 306 title win
Merab Dvalishvili's head coach, John Wood, recently spoke to Sportskeeda's James Lynch in an exclusive interview. He touched on various topics, ranging from 'The Machine's performance against Sean O'Malley at Noche UFC 306 to when Dvalishvili could make his first bantamweight title defense.
While the Georgian star only just won the 135-pound belt, the question about when he will return to the octagon has quickly taken over, especially with Umar Nurmagomedov as the next possible title challenger. When addressing possible return dates for Dvalishvili, Wood said the following:
"I'd like to be able to see him take a break, go home, I think he needs to go home to Georgia and live this up a little bit. He needs to enjoy the moment before he even starts to think about this. I mean, I think I could see a January, February type deal being something not too far out of the way."
Check out John Wood talk about Merab Dvalishvili's return (12:36):
At Noche UFC 306, Dvalishvili took part in what was the culmination of a long and arduous journey in the bantamweight division. He outwrestled and outworked O'Malley en route to a dominant five-round unanimous decision, claiming bantamweight championship glory in his 11th consecutive win.
After years of fighting former champions and top contenders while allowing his best friend Aljamain Sterling to pursue the divisional title, 'The Machine' has finally realized his dream. But as is natural with newly crowned champions, many now eagerly await his return, especially with an intriguing matchup awaiting him.
Merab Dvalishvili isn't keen on facing Umar Nurmagomedov next
After beating Sean O'Malley, Merab Dvalishvili was quickly asked by Joe Rogan about defending his title against Umar Nurmagomedov, who was in attendance for the fight. However, Dvalishvili completely ignored the question in is post-fight interview, instead opting to shower UFC CEO Dana White with praise.
Check out Merab Dvalishvili's evading Joe Rogan's question about Umar Nurmagomedov (3:17):
Thereafter, he spoke about his desire to face ex-flyweight titleholder Deiveson Figueiredo instead, who is also intent on the fight. Unfortunately, 'The Machine' will soon come to realize that the champion is often forced to fight an opponent of the UFC's selection, regardless of protests.