Merab Dvalishvili Eyes Song Yadong Bout Following UFC 333 Trilogy
Former bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili is open to a quick turnaround to face Song Yadong in November following his UFC 333 title rematch against Petr Yan.
· VILLAND PICK editorial
Former UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili is set to return from a 10-month layoff to face reigning champion Petr Yan in a trilogy bout serving as the co-main event of UFC 333 in Abu Dhabi. In 2026, Dvalishvili attempted to become the first fighter in UFC history to successfully defend a title four times in a calendar year, but Yan denied him the milestone by avenging his 2023 loss to the Georgian fighter.
Speaking at media day ahead of UFC 333, Dvalishvili reflected on his active schedule and stated that while he would not accept another rapid two-month turnaround against Yan, he is willing to make a quick return for other contenders. Specifically, Dvalishvili expressed interest in fighting Song Yadong this November at Madison Square Garden.
Dvalishvili noted that a matchup with Song makes sense regardless of whether he wins or loses against Yan on Saturday. Song, who previously came up short in key bouts against Yan, Cory Sandhagen, and Sean O'Malley, has forced his way back to the front of the bantamweight title picture. Dvalishvili also mentioned plans to open a gym in November, though his competitive mindset keeps him open to a swift return to the Octagon.
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