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Petr Yan Reclaims UFC Bantamweight Title Over Merab Dvalishvili by Unanimous Decision

Discussion now centers on a trilogy or alternative challengers in 2026.

Overview

  • Dvalishvili’s coach told MMA Fighting he believed they were ahead during the fight, noting judges ultimately favored Yan’s more damaging moments.
  • The former champion was taken to a hospital after the bout, with attention on his recovery following visible facial injuries.
  • Analysts highlight Yan’s control of the striking and Dvalishvili’s low takedown success at 2 of 29, crediting specialized wrestling prep in camp.
  • Yan is the first Russian fighter to regain a UFC championship, restoring the bantamweight belt nearly four years after losing it by disqualification.
  • Public reactions included congratulations from Telegram founder Pavel Durov and fighter Khamzat Chimaev, while media debate potential next opponents such as a Dvalishvili trilogy, Umar Nurmagomedov or Sean O’Malley.