Merab Dvalishvili: A Champion with Unusual Preparation
The UFC bantamweight champion, Merab Dvalishvili, has revealed an unconventional preparation method that includes sparring sessions on the same day as the fight. Dvalishvili, known for his impressive endurance, completed five full rounds of sparring at the gym last weekend in Las Vegas, approximately nine hours before his title defense against Cory Sandhagen at UFC 320. Dvalishvili (21-4) defeated Sandhagen (18-5) by decision in what was apparently their second five-round fight that day.According to his head coach at Syndicate MMA, John Wood, this practice is common for the Georgian fighter. Wood explained that, although the rounds are at a pace of “around 70 percent,” they are still an intense and technical workout. In addition to the five rounds in the gym, Dvalishvili also warms up in the arena before the fight. Generally, he completes between three and five additional rounds with his teammate and former bantamweight champion, Aljamain Sterling, right before entering the octagon. Dvalishvili is recognized for his relentless physical condition. In his fight against Sandhagen, he achieved 20 takedowns, raising his career total to 117, the most in UFC history. He has already requested that the UFC schedule his next title defense for December.Merab has been doing this since I started training him [in 2020]. Every fight day, he goes and spars for five rounds. He wanted to do six, and I had to stop him.
John Wood, head coach of Syndicate MMA
