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October 08, 2025
Morning Report: Kenny Florian calls Merab Dvalishvili ‘the Khabib at 135 pounds’
Merab Dvalishvili is on a legendary hot streak right now, one that has some comparing him to arguably the greatest fighter of all time. Following Dvalishvili’s dominant win over Cory Sandhagen at UFC 320 this past Saturday, Kenny Florian spoke about the reigning bantamweight champion’s incredible string of performances along with co-host Jon Anik and [...]
Kenny Florian, a former UFC fighter and current commentator, has ignited a fresh wave of discussion around Merab Dvalishvili, comparing the Georgian bantamweight champion to the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov. The comparison came on the heels of Dvalishvili’s impressive victory over Cory Sandhagen at UFC 320 this past Saturday, a performance that further cemented his place at the top of the 135-pound division.
Florian, speaking alongside co-host Jon Anik, didn't hold back in his praise for Dvalishvili, highlighting the fighter's relentless pressure, exceptional grappling, and seemingly limitless gas tank. He went on to say that Dvalishvili’s style, characterized by constant takedown attempts and suffocating top control, is reminiscent of Nurmagomedov's dominance in the lightweight division.
"Merab is just a machine," Florian stated, presumably during a post-fight breakdown. "The way he overwhelms his opponents, the non-stop wrestling… he’s the Khabib at 135 pounds."
The comparison to Nurmagomedov, who retired undefeated with a record of 29-0, is high praise indeed. Nurmagomedov’s reign at lightweight was defined by his unmatched grappling prowess and ability to impose his will on opponents, often leading to dominant ground-and-pound finishes.
While Dvalishvili's striking is different from Nurmagomedov's, Florian’s comments likely focused on the overall approach to fighting. Dvalishvili, known for his incredible cardio and relentless pursuit of takedowns, has frustrated and broken down numerous opponents with his pressure-heavy style. His victory over Sandhagen was a prime example, as he consistently outworked and outgrappled the former interim title challenger.
The “Machine” currently boasts a lengthy win streak in the UFC bantamweight division. Whether Dvalishvili can ultimately reach the same level of legendary status as Nurmagomedov remains to be seen, but Florian’s bold comparison underscores the growing recognition of Dvalishvili's unique and dominant fighting style. The comparison is sure to fuel further debate among MMA fans and analysts as Dvalishvili continues his championship reign.
Florian, speaking alongside co-host Jon Anik, didn't hold back in his praise for Dvalishvili, highlighting the fighter's relentless pressure, exceptional grappling, and seemingly limitless gas tank. He went on to say that Dvalishvili’s style, characterized by constant takedown attempts and suffocating top control, is reminiscent of Nurmagomedov's dominance in the lightweight division.
"Merab is just a machine," Florian stated, presumably during a post-fight breakdown. "The way he overwhelms his opponents, the non-stop wrestling… he’s the Khabib at 135 pounds."
The comparison to Nurmagomedov, who retired undefeated with a record of 29-0, is high praise indeed. Nurmagomedov’s reign at lightweight was defined by his unmatched grappling prowess and ability to impose his will on opponents, often leading to dominant ground-and-pound finishes.
While Dvalishvili's striking is different from Nurmagomedov's, Florian’s comments likely focused on the overall approach to fighting. Dvalishvili, known for his incredible cardio and relentless pursuit of takedowns, has frustrated and broken down numerous opponents with his pressure-heavy style. His victory over Sandhagen was a prime example, as he consistently outworked and outgrappled the former interim title challenger.
The “Machine” currently boasts a lengthy win streak in the UFC bantamweight division. Whether Dvalishvili can ultimately reach the same level of legendary status as Nurmagomedov remains to be seen, but Florian’s bold comparison underscores the growing recognition of Dvalishvili's unique and dominant fighting style. The comparison is sure to fuel further debate among MMA fans and analysts as Dvalishvili continues his championship reign.
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