Merab Dvalishvili unsure of next challenger after UFC 311 title defense: 'I beat everybody in this division'

INGLEWOOD, Calif. – Merab Dvalishvili thinks he’s running out of opponents at 135 pounds.

After completing his first title defense, the UFC bantamweight champion had a tough time seeing a clear next challenger for him. Dvalishvili (19-4 MMA, 12-2 UFC) defeated Umar Nurmagomedov (18-1 MMA, 6-1 UFC) in a unanimous decision in the co-main event of Saturday’s UFC 311, which took place at Intuit Dome.

Although it was his first title defense, Dvalishvili is now on an impressive 12-fight winning streak. He holds wins over the top three contenders in the official rankings of the division, and has defeated four former champions – which makes his options thin outside rematches.

“I want to fight with the best guys in the division, like I always do,” Dvalishvili said at the UFC 311 post-fight press conference. “It excites me the next best challenge. That’s what excites me – fighting the next best challenge. I think I beat everybody in this division, so we’ll see who’s the next best challenge.”

Dvalishvili is down to fight whoever the UFC sees fit, but he did suggest a rematch with Sean O'Malley, who he beat back in September. Dvalishvili feels there are some skeptics left of his O’Malley championship win and would like to leave no doubt who the better fighter is.

“Sean O’Malley was complaining about something, and he really has a chance,” Dvalishvili said. “We know he can knock people out if he lands on you. He has a big chance, so I see him as a challenge, too. Myabe he makes some changes this time, and we go toe to toe this time, and it will be a good fight

“But I’m the champion now, and they have to call me out. I’m ready to come back quick, as soon as UFC wants me to come back. I respect the UFC’s decision now, and I will fight whoever will be next.”

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 311.