Merab Dvalishvili, often referred to as `The Machine,` has systematically dismantled the UFC bantamweight division, transforming himself into an undeniable force. His relentless pace, unbreakable cardio, and suffocating wrestling have made him a puzzle few have come close to solving. With each dominant victory, most recently against Cory Sandhagen at UFC 320, the question intensifies: who possesses the elusive key to unlock Merab`s formidable defense? According to former UFC bantamweight champion TJ Dillashaw, the answer might just lie in an opponent`s willingness to embrace the very challenge many try to avoid, and he sees Umar Nurmagomedov as the one fighter who has genuinely attempted it.
Dillashaw, a tactical savant in his own right, recently offered a compelling analysis on the Jaxxon Podcast. He posited that a critical tactical error made by many of Dvalishvili’s adversaries is their reluctance to engage `The Machine` in his own domain: grappling. The fear of Merab`s seemingly impenetrable takedown defense often leads opponents to abandon their own wrestling aspirations, opting instead for striking exchanges where Dvalishvili’s relentless pressure can still overwhelm. It’s an interesting paradox: facing a grappling maestro, most fighters shy away from attempting takedowns, thereby potentially allowing Dvalishvili to dictate the terms of engagement even when standing.
This is precisely where Umar Nurmagomedov enters the conversation. Despite his loss to Dvalishvili at UFC 311 earlier this year, Dillashaw observed something distinct in Umar`s approach. “I think that`s a mistake a lot of guys make, that they’re not shooting on him,” Dillashaw stated, adding, “Umar did, though. That`s why I want to see him fight Umar again because someone needs to take him down and hold him down. Who knows how good his bottom game is? I don’t know.”
Dillashaw`s insight suggests a subtle, yet profound, strategic gambit. By actively pursuing takedowns, Umar forced Dvalishvili to defend, potentially revealing unexplored facets of his ground game. While Merab is a recognized master of offensive wrestling and takedown defense, his vulnerability from his back, or his ability to escape and recover against a high-level grappler focused solely on control, remains relatively untested. It’s a classic martial arts adage: the best defense is often a good offense. Perhaps the way to neutralize Dvalishvili`s offensive grappling is to force him onto the defensive, compelling him to expend energy and mental fortitude in unfamiliar positions.
The notion that Umar Nurmagomedov holds the strategic blueprint is further bolstered by a significant endorsement from his cousin, the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov. Khabib, known for his keen eye for talent and tactical brilliance, believes Umar possesses the raw potential to ascend to the sport`s pound-for-pound elite. Drawing a parallel to Islam Makhachev’s journey, who also faced an early career loss, Khabib emphasized the importance of how Umar deals with adversity. “Umar`s situation right now, he`s dealing with a loss but, in 2015, Islam was in the same position. Today`s 2025 and he`s the best fighter on the earth,” Khabib remarked, hinting at a similar redemptive arc for Umar.
Umar Nurmagomedov is poised for his return at UFC 321, where he is slated to face Mario Bautista. This fight represents a crucial juncture for the Dagestani contender. A dominant bounce-back performance would not only reaffirm his championship aspirations but also validate the strategic insights offered by Dillashaw and the unwavering belief of Khabib.
Merab Dvalishvili`s dominance is unquestionable, but the path to victory against `The Machine` may not be through avoiding his strengths, but rather by aggressively testing all of them. Dillashaw`s tactical perspective, combined with Khabib`s endorsement of Umar`s potential, paints a captivating narrative for the future of the bantamweight division. The question of Dvalishvili’s “bottom game” lingers, a strategic vulnerability perhaps only Umar Nurmagomedov has genuinely attempted to expose. Should a rematch materialize, it would be more than just another fight; it would be a clash of strategies, a true test of a champion`s full arsenal, and a fascinating chapter in the ongoing saga of UFC`s bantamweight elite.
