MMA World Condemns Dagestani Fighters After Attack on Merab Dvalishvili

The mixed martial arts world is in an uproar following an assault on former UFC champion Merab Dvalishvili by a group of Dagestani fighters before a wrestling event in Abu Dhabi. The incident, which involved Usman Nurmagomedov and his associates, has sparked widespread criticism of their behavior.

Israeli Tuff N Uff champion Stav Koren, a close friend and training partner of Dvalishvili, described the incident as typical of the Dagestani fighters' conduct. "It's always like this with them. They always give the feeling that it's more than a sport, that something is happening beyond," Koren told Sport Channel. He added that the attackers seemed unable to accept that a Georgian fighter had defeated a Dagestani, referencing Dvalishvili's win over Omar Nurmagomedov. Koren believes Dvalishvili would have been severely beaten if not for the intervention of a friend who was with him.

Renowned MMA journalist Ariel Helwani condemned the actions as "criminal behavior," stating that if such an assault occurred on the street, arrests would be made. He highlighted that the entire incident was filmed, showing a group attacking a single individual, slapping him, and continuing to beat him and his friend. UFC fighter Kevin Holland and former UFC fighter Darren Till also voiced their disapproval, with Till noting that Dagestani fighters often appear in groups and questioning their aggressive tactics.

Reports indicate that all individuals involved, including Dvalishvili and his friend, were taken to the police station for questioning. Dvalishvili did not file a complaint, but the investigation is ongoing. The legal ramifications and potential impact on Usman Nurmagomedov's anticipated UFC contract remain unclear.