Merab Dvalishvili, a Georgian and American professional mixed martial artist, defeated Sean O’Malley for the UFC Bantamweight Championship on September 14, 2024, at UFC 306.
He is scheduled to make his second title defense against Sean O’Malley in a rematch on June 7, 2025, at UFC 316.
Highlights
- Merab Dvalishvili’s parents, Amiran and Darejan Dvalishvili, moved to Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital, in search of better opportunities.
- His parents returned to their village and grew fruits and vegetables, selling their harvest while generously sharing with neighbors and family.
- His father was raised in a small Georgian village and worked for ten years in Russia.
Merab’s parents have been strong supporters in his MMA career, and he started training in traditional wrestling, fighting, sambo, and judo for self-defense from a young age.
Later, at age 21, he moved to the United States to become a professional MMA fighter and trained under Ray Longo and Matt Serra.
He started his MMA career in 2014 and fought under various promotions, including CFFC and Ring of Combat (ROC).
He signed on “Dana White Looking for a Fight,” and UFC President Dana White subsequently awarded a contract.
On December 9, 2017, he made his UFC debut in a losing fight against Frankie Saenz and earned the Fight of the Night award, even though he lost his second fight to Ricky Simon.
Afterward, he defeated Terrion Ware, Brad Katona, Casey Kenney, Gustavo Lopez, John Dodson, Cody Stamann, Marlon Moraes, José Aldo, Petr Yan, Henry Cejudo, etc.
The MMA artist became the second Georgian to win a UFC title after Ilia Topuria.
Merab Dvalishvili’s Parents Shaped A UFC Star
Merab Dvalishvili, the son of Amiran and Darejan Dvalishvili, was born on January 10, 1991, in Tbilisi, Georgian SSR, Soviet Union. He has always credited his success to his roots.
His parents have been his constant support system, and his glimpses into his family reveal a story of resilience, hard work, and deep love.
Merab belongs to the proud Caucasian ethnic group from Georgia and has been a lifelong Eastern Orthodox Christian, frequently attending the Georgian Orthodox Church.
His upbringing was shaped by traditional values, strong faith, and the close-knit bond of his family.
Moreover, Merab’s father, Amiran Dvalishvili, was born and raised in a small Georgian village. He worked for ten years in Russia before returning to his homeland to start a family.
Alongside his wife, Darejan, he built a simple yet fulfilling life centered around hard work and perseverance.
When Merab was nine years old, the family moved to Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital, in search of better opportunities.
However, as their children grew older, Amiran and Darejan returned to their village, embracing their rural lifestyle again.
Merab’s brothers stayed in the city to work, while his parents chose a quieter life, tending to their land and maintaining their traditions.
Sometimes, I look at my boy and think about how quickly the years have passed. It’s true that he grew up and has changed, but the stubbornness that ran in his blood has not disappeared. I think this strong character helped him succeed.
Amiran Dvalishvili
Despite their age, Amiran and Darejan remain active. Merab often tells them to take it easy, but they continue working out of pride and dedication, not out of necessity.
They grow fruits and vegetables, selling their harvest while generously sharing with neighbors and family. Their garden proves their hard work, filled with homegrown produce that sustains the household and community.
Their selflessness extends to their grandchildren, ensuring their loved ones are cared for.
Furthermore, Merab shares a special bond with his father, Amiran. The two even have a unique project in the works, building a tower on their property so they can enjoy the view of their village from home.
Their relationship is filled with warmth and playful moments; Merab has been seen jokingly wrestling with his father, showcasing their close and affectionate dynamic.
Meanwhile, Darejan is the nurturing force behind the family.
Amiran and Darejan’s influence on the MMA artist’s career cannot be overstated. Their work ethic, humility, and unwavering support have shaped him into the fighter he is today.
Alot of business meetings, a little family time. Going back to my home Georgia always leaves me with good energy. Be back soon.
Merab Dvalishvili
Additional Information
- Merab Dvalishvili is renowned for his exceptional cardiovascular fitness and muscular endurance, which enable him to compete at a high pace.
- He competed in combat sambo at 68 kilograms and finished second in the 2019 World Sambo Championships in South Korea.
- As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at $2 million.
