Merab "The Machine" Dvalishvili Is An Absolute PROBLEM For UFC Bantamweights

Merab "The Machine" Dvalishvili just impressively shut down Jose Aldo with volume/control for three straight rounds at UFC 278 leading to a unanimous decision victory for the Georgian fighting outta the Serra/Longo camp. 

It wasn't the flashiest, most exciting fight in the world, and Merab didn't put on a perfect performance by any means, going 0/16 on takedowns, but the level of pressure he was able to put on a legend like Aldo for fifteen minutes was insane. Dude's gas tank has an unlimited fuel cheat code on it.

Obviously, the crowd hated the grapplefucking, because it was a bit boring and Aldo is probably the biggest fan favorite on the card, but man - I'm really impressed. Even Merab's abillity to listen to his corner of Matt Serra, Ray Longo, and Aljamain Sterling in-between rounds and implement what they wanted outta him was great.

Conor McGregor showed Dvalishvili some love on Twitter, as well, and quote tweeted Spinnin Backfist earlier today....

Bantamweight may truly be the UFC's most stacked division right now....

When Joe Rogan asked Merab about the potential of him and teammate/cornerman/UFC Bantamweight Champion Aljamain Sterling fighting, Merab yelled at Joe and said that they're brothers and never to ask him again. It was hilarious.

As far as what's next for Jose Aldo, I think you gotta listen to Danny Segura here….

Aldo vs Cruz in Rio de Jaineiro would be AMAZING! It's too good an idea not to do and the timing is perfect.

P.S. Always gotta share this video of Merab when I blog about him, because - sheesh - guy's a lunatic.