UFC bantamweight champion alleges assault by Usman Nurmagomedov's group in Abu Dhabi
Merab Dvalishvili says he and a companion were attacked by Usman Nurmagomedov and associates during a Real American Freestyle media event in Abu Dhabi.
Merab Dvalinshvili, the UFC bantamweight champion, posted a video showing himself and a friend being assaulted during a Real American Freestyle media event in an Abu Dhabi hotel lobby. He said a group linked to Usman Nurmagomedov approached from behind and struck them while security personnel restrained them.
In a separate video posted by former two-division champion Ilia Topuria, Dvalinshvili accused the attackers of cowardice and demanded a direct confrontation, stating, "You're a bunch of cowards, and you'll be held accountable for what you've done." He also emphasized that he was unharmed and reassured supporters of his well-being.
Dvalinshvili wrote on social media that the incident occurred mid-interview, with multiple individuals punching and kicking him and his companion. He described the security staff as continuing to hold them down after the assault.
The tension between Dvalinshvili and the Nurmagomedov family dates back to the buildup for Dvalinshvili's January 2025 title defense, which he won by unanimous decision. Usman Nurmagomedov, a free agent recently signed by the Professional Fighters League after stints in Bellator, has been seen at recent UFC events.