The UFC has officially announced that bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili will defend his title for the first time against undefeated contender Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311.
The bout is set to take place on January 18, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California, in the event’s co-main slot.
UFC CEO Dana White shared the news on social media, revealing the grudge match between these highly skilled fighters. “Makhachev vs Tsarukyan and Dvalishvili vs Nurmagomedov is LIVE January 18th from @intuitdome, California!” White posted on Twitter.
Dvalishvili, the reigning bantamweight king, claimed the title in September at Noche UFC, where he defeated Sean O’Malley in a dominant unanimous decision. The Georgian fighter, known as “The Machine,” currently rides an incredible eleven-fight win streak.
His list of victories includes top fighters like Henry Cejudo, Petr Yan, Jose Aldo, and Marlon Moraes. Dvalishvili has developed a reputation for his relentless pace and grinding wrestling style.
Across the Octagon will stand the formidable Umar Nurmagomedov, a second-ranked contender who has yet to taste defeat in his professional MMA career. Umar boasts an impressive 16-0 record, with notable wins over Cory Sandhagen, Brian Kelleher, and Raoni Barcelos.
His victory against Sandhagen in August was particularly significant, as it showcased his elite grappling and technical skillset.
The stakes are remarkably high in what has already been billed as a heated, must-watch encounter. Nurmagomedov, cousin to former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, is seeking to extend his family’s legendary legacy in the sport. Meanwhile, Dvalishvili looks to solidify himself as the undisputed king of the bantamweight division.
UFC 311 will also feature a lightweight title rematch between champion Islam Makhachev and top contender Arman Tsarukyan in the main event, making the January 18 card a blockbuster night for MMA fans. Both title fights are expected to draw massive attention as the UFC kicks off 2025 with two high-stakes championship clashes.
The bantamweight division continues to thrive with this electrifying matchup, as Merab Dvalishvili and Umar Nurmagomedov prepare to put their skills and pride on the line.
