Merab Dvalishvili targets Petr Yan rematch at UFC 333

Merab Dvalishvili has identified the primary error in his recent loss to Petr Yan as he prepares for a trilogy bout at UFC 333. The fight is scheduled for October 24 in Abu Dhabi, where Yan will defend his bantamweight title.

Dvalishvili noted that during their second encounter at UFC 323, he deviated from his successful style by engaging in striking exchanges rather than utilizing his signature pressure and wrestling. He stated, ‘In the second fight I was fighting his fight. I was in front of him and then exchanged the boxing, but this time I will just be myself.’

The rivalry currently stands at 1-1. Dvalishvili won their first meeting in 2023 through dominant takedowns, while Yan reclaimed the championship in their December 2025 rematch via a unanimous decision. Dvalishvili expressed confidence in returning to his fundamental grappling-heavy approach to secure the title.