In the pulsating world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), few names resonate with the kind of respect and admiration that Merab Dvalishvili commands. Known affectionately as “The Machine,” Dvalishvili has redefined expectations for bantamweight fighters through an extraordinary takedown record that sets him apart from the competition. With 92 successful takedowns across just 14 bouts, he holds the UFC record, outshining even the most seasoned veterans. Colby Covington, a respected college wrestler, stands as the closest active competitor with only 70 takedowns to his name, yet he has fought three more times than Dvalishvili. This statistic alone opens a discussion about the gear-shifting dynamics in the octagon—a realm where wrestling prowess can translate into sheer dominance.
Dvalishvili’s statistics almost seem surreal and misleading at times. He averages an astonishing 15.6 attempts per three-round fight, and this figure soars to an imposing 31.3 attempts when stretched over five rounds. Even the illustrious Georges St-Pierre, who ranks second in overall takedowns, has an average of a meager 7.8 attempts in his 12 five-round contests. This juxtaposition reveals not only Dvalishvili’s relentless approach but also raises questions about the tactical nuances underlying his seemingly straightforward strategy of dominating opponents with takedowns.
The Unseen Struggle
While one might be tempted to pigeonhole Dvalishvili’s fighting style into a wrestling-heavy approach, doing so would overlook the rich complexity of his game. It’s essential to realize that every fighter has vulnerabilities, and Dvalishvili’s excessive reliance on wrestling has illuminated a chink in his armor. With 158 unsuccessful takedown attempts, his overall success percentage stands at a respectable yet not unparalleled 58.2%. This indicates a significant amount of energy expended in failing takedown attempts, yet therein lies a strategic advantage: forcing opponents into a constant state of defense. This grueling demand depletes opponents’ stamina, particularly against a fighter who seems to have an infinite gas tank, leading to an exhausting evening inside the Octagon.
Former champion Petr Yan learned this lesson the hard way when he faced Dvalishvili, who recorded a UFC record of 11 successful takedowns in one bout. Compounding this, Dvalishvili attempted a staggering 49 takedowns in that fight alone. Meanwhile, the outcome of his previous match against José Aldo was equally illuminating—despite failing on all 16 takedown attempts, Dvalishvili still managed to control the fight convincingly.
Volume Striking: The Unsung Hero
What often gets overshadowed by the takedown headlines is Dvalishvili’s striking. Currently, he leads the bantamweight division with a remarkable total of 2,202 strikes landed, showcasing his ability to employ boxing techniques learned during his amateur Golden Gloves career. This dual-threat capability makes him a multifaceted adversary: he’s not just a wrestler hunting for takedowns, but also a proficient striker that capitalizes on every opening opponents leave behind while defending against his relentless pursuit of the mat.
His tactical striking complements his wrestling assertiveness, making Dvalishvili an elusive target. Whether it’s exploiting openings during takedown defenses or setting up wrestling through striking volume, he has taught every opponent that they can’t afford to hesitate even for a second. The signatures of his dominance in the Octagon are often marked by unanimous decisions, yet he shatters the conventional narrative—his brand of relentless pressure makes him both a feared competitor and a fan-favorite.
A Champion’s Endurance
The secret to Dvalishvili’s success lies not only in his technical skills but drastically in his unparalleled stamina. Dvalishvili thrives on the assurance that his fights can and will go the full distance. In fact, only one of his 12 UFC victories has come by way of a finish, underscoring his penchant for wearing down adversaries over the course of five rounds.
As other fighters tire, he appears invigorated, which allows him to ramp up the pace and showcase his skills with a flourish. Audiences have been treated to his unique showmanship—a tantalizing blend of tactical savagery and flamboyant expressions. Moments such as mockingly kissing Sean O’Malley’s back mid-fight serve as reminders that Dvalishvili is not merely securing victories; he is actively engaging the crowd and crafting a persona that transcends the fight itself.
Instead of falling into the negative disdain often associated with decision victories, Dvalishvili has cultivated a brand marked by entertainment, relentless energy, and charm. In a sport where striking numbers are often downplayed, The Machine has found a way to be both dominant and delightful, and that is perhaps his most significant accomplishment in the world of MMA.