Ilia Topuria’s Father Pays Respect to Merab Dvalishvili for Inspiring an Entire Generation
Ilia Topuria’s father, Zaza Topuria, has shown respect to former UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili for inspiring a whole generation and for opening the door for others in Georgia to chase a professional MMA career.
‘The Machine’ is the first Georgian-born champion in UFC history. He grabbed the 135-pound championship by dethroning Sean O’Malley in 2024. In 2025, he successfully defended his strap three times against notable opponents: Umar Nurmagomedov, ‘Suga,’ (in a rematch), and Cory Sandhagen.
In December 2025, at UFC 323, Merab Dvalishvili attempted to become the first UFC champion to log four successful title defenses within one year. He locked horns with Petr Yan in a rematch but was unsuccessful in his pursuit. The 35-year-old lost to Yan by unanimous decision.
For staying active and stepping up wherever needed, the promotion has returned the respect, assuring Merab Dvalishvili that he’ll receive a title rematch to finally settle his trilogy with Petr Yan whenever he’s ready.
Recently, Topuria’s father, during a candid chat with Dvalishvili, lauded him and thanked the latter for what he has done for the country and its people. Zaza Topuria said:
“You were the first who played a big role in that. I want to hug you with my soul and heart. You did a lot of stuff, not only for our family but for the whole of Georgia, especially for the new generation. Generations will be proud of you.”
Check out Zaza Topuria’s comments to Merab Dvalishvili below:
Topuria, who is the first Georgian-born Spaniard to become a UFC champion, has been spotted with Dvalishvili lately, training as they both gear up for their respective octagon returns.
Former UFC champ does not mind waiting if Merab Dvalishvili fights Petr Yan next
This past weekend at UFC 324, Sean O’Malley snapped his two-fight losing skid by securing a unanimous decision win against Song Yadong. After that, ‘Suga’ expressed interest in a rematch with two-time and current UFC bantamweight champ Petr Yan.
However, since Yan is most likely booked to fight Merab Dvalishvili, O’Malley has agreed to wait for another title shot. At the post-fight presser, he said:
“I am chilling. If they make that fight, I am chilling.”
Check out Sean O’Malley’s comments below:
