In the Clinch: Yan vs. Dvalishvili, UFC Fight Night 221 – It’s been a long two years or so for Petr Yan. He’s looking to get back on track against Dvalishvili on Saturday.
The former bantamweight champion has narrowly lost three of his last four bouts to elite competition. This includes losing the belt to current champion Aljamain Sterling in March 2020.
But the fire still burns for “No Mercy.”
In recognition of that fact, Yan (16-4-0), 30, is still ranked No. 2 in the division. But he has been overtaken by phenom No. 1 Sean O’Malley and now No. 3 Merab Dvalishvili (15-4-0), 32, will be across from him Saturday.
Let’s not forget former champion Henry Cejudo is expected to return from retirement against Sterling.
Dvalishvili is the one who convinced former featherweight king Jose Aldo to retire, and his grappling game usually powers him to a decision win. While his finish rate is not very high, he does have a recent TKO victory over Marlon Moraes and so it would not be wise to sleep on his striking.
But while Yan has also beaten Aldo, he has a lot of experience with grapplers. He bedeviled Sterling with his striking and takedown defense in two bouts without ever getting a win. In talking to reporters on media day, Yan expressed a confident disinterest when asked about his opponent.
Dvalishvili has stated previously that he will not fight his friend in Aljamain Sterling. In interviews, he said he will be looking for the knockout but is willing to go wherever the fight goes.
Finally, if you like your fights spicy, there is also a healthy serving of the Russia vs. Georgia dynamic here for your plate.
Yan and Dvalishvili need a win on Saturday, but there can only be one.
Just win, baby.
In the Clinch: Yan vs. Dvalishvili, UFC Fight Night 221 – More Resources
Petr Yan
Merab Dvalishvili
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