As UFC 321 approaches, all eyes are on the bantamweight clash between Umar Nurmagomedov and Mario Bautista, a bout that carries significant implications for the division’s hierarchy. Ahead of the fight, reigning UFC Bantamweight Champion Merab Dvalishvili shared his prediction, adding fuel to the anticipation surrounding this high-stakes matchup.
Nurmagomedov vs. Bautista: Setting the stage
Umar Nurmagomedov, a former title challenger, has built a reputation as one of the most technically skilled fighters in the bantamweight division. Across 19 professional bouts, he has only tasted defeat once—against Dvalishvili himself at UFC 311 in January.
Mario Bautista, currently ranked #9 in the division, comes into the fight on an impressive eight-fight winning streak, with victories over Patchy Mix and Jose Aldo showcasing his striking, grappling, and overall fight IQ. This clash serves as a potential title eliminator, and the winner could find themselves next in line to challenge Dvalishvili for the bantamweight crown.
Merab Dvalishvili’s prediction
Merab Dvalishvili, who defended his bantamweight title for the third time this year against Cory Sandhagen at UFC 320, weighed in on the fight during an appearance on UFC Unfiltered.
“He’s a great fighter. My prediction for this fight, I think, Bautista,” Dvalishvili stated.
Merab Dvalishvili further emphasized that the three-round format of the fight gives Mario Bautista a viable chance, while also hinting at the challenge Umar poses.
“It’s a three-round fight. Umar is tricky, whatever, but Bautista has a chance,” he added.
He also reflected on his previous victory over Umar Nurmagomedov, suggesting that it may have a psychological impact on the fighter:
“I’ll be a little bit cocky… I think I broke Umar.”
Dvalishvili went on to express his interest in facing the winner:
“I’m cheering for Bautista and then, hopefully, Bautista will beat Umar, and then hopefully Bautista will be my next opponent because that will be new blood for our division and then I would like to fight Bautista…”
What’s at stake
This matchup is more than just a regular card fight. For Nurmagomedov, a loss could mean a second straight defeat to high-level opponents, potentially delaying his title aspirations. For Bautista, a win over a top contender would significantly elevate his standing, positioning him as a legitimate challenger for the bantamweight crown.
With both fighters in peak form, UFC 321 promises to deliver fireworks in the bantamweight division, and Merab Dvalishvili’s prediction adds an intriguing narrative for fans to follow.
Fight Details:
Event: UFC 321
Main Card Bout: Umar Nurmagomedov vs. Mario Bautista
Significance: Potential title eliminator for the Bantamweight Championship