Yan (20-5) starts to defend his
Ultimate Fighting Championship underweight title against Dvalishvili (21-5) at
UFC 333. Having already shared the octagon with his challenger for 10 rounds, the champion recognizes Dvalishvili’s strengths and is eager to show his progress.
Petr Yan says ‘diamonds are made under pressure’ as he prepares for Merab Dvalishvili’s trilogy in Abu Dhabi
Dvalishvili is known for relentless pressure that often frustrates his opponents. However, Yan sees this as a test of his abilities.
“I can’t really be upset (with Merab’s pressure) because it’s part of his game plan,” Yan told Paramount+. “Every MMA fighter has a game plan. That’s him. To push forward, to apply pressure. But as we know, diamonds are made under pressure. So we find out who we really are when that pressure keeps coming at you and see if you’re that diamond. Everyone knows how to swim, but not everyone is ready to go too far from shore.”
Dvalishvili outlasted Yan in their first meeting in 2023, setting the UFC record for most unanimous decision takedown attempts. The Russian reversed the outcome in their rematch last year, neutralizing the Georgian’s wrestling for the title win. Their rubber match is scheduled for October 24 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
