Earlier this week, UFC CEO Dana White announced several major matchups for UFC 311. Among these are title fights featuring Islam Makhachev facing Arman Tsarukyan and Merab Dvalishvili going up against Umar Nurmagomedov.
In conjunction with these exciting bouts, the promotion revealed a special press conference scheduled for this past Friday. Fans were treated to the sight of Makhachev, Tsarukyan, Dvalishvili, and Nurmagomedov sharing the stage to discuss their upcoming fights.
Since Dvalishvili secured his title this past September, he and the undefeated Nurmagomedov have engaged in a heated online rivalry, elevating the anticipation for their bantamweight title clash.
Ahead of their showdown at UFC 311 in California on January 18, the tension remained palpable as the two continued to exchange verbal jabs during the press conference. Nurmagomedov received support from his teammate, Makhachev, who managed to keep things respectful with his opponent, Tsarukyan.
However, Dvalishvili drew Makhachev into their feud by referencing a well-known photo that has been a point of contention for Team Khabib. When a reporter inquired about his best moment with Umar, Makhachev responded, “The same night we fight for the title, that’s the best moment.”
Dvalishvili humorously interjected, asking, “How about the jacuzzi?” to which Makhachev invited him to come along. Nurmagomedov quickly redirected the focus, stating, “I was not there, and you have to talk about your fight, not something else.”
In a bid to maintain respect, Makhachev advised Dvalishvili not to tarnish the belt’s reputation, saying, “I don’t have nothing for you, Merab, just respect. When you have a real contender, just fight.”
The ‘jacuzzi’ reference alluded to an incident from years prior when Khabib Nurmagomedov, Makhachev, and other team members were photographed together in a jacuzzi, a moment that has lingered in their history.
Following the press conference, things escalated between Dvalishvili and Nurmagomedov backstage. The two continued their exchanges, prompting Dana White to employ heavy security measures to keep them apart.
Despite the security, the fighters attempted to confront each other, with Nurmagomedov proclaiming he would step outside if called. “I will be in Vegas, call me. Anytime,” he shouted as they remained separated by multiple guards.
In response, Dvalishvili challenged him, “Come here, I’m here now.” Nurmagomedov replied, “Here, a lot of security. Call me, we’re gonna see,” while Dvalishvili seemingly accepted the invite, saying he’d call.
Notably, former champion Sean O’Malley is expected to attend the UFC 311 co-main event, as he seeks to determine his next title opponent.
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