In the high-stakes arena of mixed martial arts, champions are forged not just by victories, but by the manner in which they achieve them. At UFC 316, Merab Dvalishvili, the reigning UFC Bantamweight Champion, delivered a performance that transcended mere victory, definitively submitting Sean O’Malley in their highly anticipated rematch. This marked not only his 13th consecutive win, placing him in an elite echelon of UFC history, but also unveiled a new facet of his evolving, dominant style.
The Unveiling of the “Machine Choke”
For years, Merab Dvalishvili has been revered as “The Machine,” a moniker earned through his relentless, high-pressure wrestling and seemingly endless cardio. Yet, his path to victory often concluded with judges’ scorecards rather than emphatic finishes. That narrative shifted dramatically at UFC 316. In a move that surprised many, Dvalishvili secured his first professional submission in the UFC, demonstrating a technical depth rarely associated with his prior, more grind-heavy approach.
The technique itself was a modified north-south choke, incorporating a distinct ninja choke grip. Post-fight, Dvalishvili, with a characteristic blend of earnestness and subtle showmanship, expressed his desire to name this novel maneuver: “Let`s call it ‘Machine Choke!’” he declared. This bespoke submission, honed in the training room, proved effective on the grandest stage, turning a conventional grappling position into a fight-ending weapon. It was an interesting turn for a fighter known for his wrestling to clinch victory via a choke, underscoring his continuous evolution.
An Evolved Champion: Beyond the Grind
Dvalishvili’s confidence has visibly grown with each successive defense, transforming him from a fighter focused solely on securing a win into one actively seeking dominance. His prior encounter with O’Malley, while a victory, was cautious. UFC 316 saw a different Merab – more open, more aggressive, and crucially, more willing to take calculated risks to finish the fight.
“First time, I said, this one I was fighting for the belt. I wanted to win this. I know I was winning, and I don’t risk it too much. I wanted to just grab it one time. I just wanted to win one time. Now, I risk — not risk, but I play more open.”
This shift reflects a champion embracing his status, confident in his abilities to not just win, but to impose his will comprehensively. The 13-fight winning streak is a testament to his consistency, but the “Machine Choke” represents a new chapter: a champion capable of adapting and finishing, proving his arsenal extends beyond sheer physical pressure.
The Road Ahead: Setting Sights on Sandhagen
With another title defense under his belt and his legacy rapidly solidifying, Merab Dvalishvili is not one to rest on his laurels. His focus has already shifted to the next deserving contender. His gaze is firmly fixed on Cory Sandhagen, a fellow elite bantamweight known for his dynamic striking and comprehensive skill set.
Dvalishvili’s respect for Sandhagen is evident, highlighting him as “the best, deserving guy in this division right now,” praising his consistency in facing top competition and his professional demeanor. This proactive call-out indicates a champion eager to stay active and continuously challenge himself against the division`s elite. A matchup between Dvalishvili’s relentless pressure and Sandhagen’s innovative offense promises a compelling clash, further elevating the already stacked bantamweight division.
Solidifying a Legacy
Merab Dvalishvili`s performance at UFC 316 was more than just another victory; it was a statement. By introducing the “Machine Choke” and demonstrating a newfound finishing prowess, he has underscored his position not just as a champion, but as a continuously evolving force in the sport. As he sets his sights on Cory Sandhagen, the bantamweight division watches keenly, anticipating the next chapter in the remarkable career of “The Machine” as he steadily cements his place among the all-time greats.
