UPDATE: In a stunning upset, Petr Yan has reclaimed the UFC men’s flyweight title by defeating Merab Dvalishvili via unanimous decision at UFC 323 in Las Vegas on October 7, 2023. The judges scored the bout 49-46 and 48-47, marking a thrilling end to Dvalishvili’s reign as champion.
This highly anticipated rematch saw Yan (record now at 20-5) flip the script after a previous encounter where he was largely defensive. With a commanding performance, Yan was the aggressor throughout the fight, showcasing his striking prowess and tactical acumen.
Dvalishvili (now 21-5), known for his relentless takedown attempts, was held in check, failing to execute a single successful takedown in the first two rounds and finishing with just 2-of-24 on takedown attempts. In contrast, Yan’s sharp jabs and effective kicks helped him land an impressive 60% of his significant strikes, visibly damaging Dvalishvili and leaving him bloodied.
The fight marked a dramatic shift from their earlier bout in 2023, where Dvalishvili attempted a staggering 49 takedowns, yet Yan managed to fend off a majority. This time, the momentum was firmly in Yan’s favor, as he executed the first takedown himself, showcasing his evolution as a fighter.
The victory not only reestablishes Yan as a top contender in the UFC but also heightens the stakes for future matchups in the flyweight division. Fans are buzzing about what this means for the future of both fighters, especially for Dvalishvili who dominated the division until this unexpected turn of events.
As fight fans digest this thrilling conclusion, the next steps for both fighters are eagerly awaited. With Yan back on top, will he defend his title, or will Dvalishvili seek an immediate rematch to reclaim his status?
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the latest from the UFC!
