Islam Makhachev blames Merab Dvalishvili for UFC altercation
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 12, 2026, 4:45 PM
Last updated Nov 12, 2026

Islam Makhachev has criticized Merab Dvalishvili for provoking a recent altercation that stemmed from previous tensions between Dvalishvili and Dagestani fighters. The incident, which took place at RAF Abu Dhabi, led to Usman Nurmagomedov attacking Dvalishvili. Makhachev argues that Dvalishvili’s earlier confrontation with Ahmed Gadzhimagomedov contributes to the conflict. The fallout from the incident raises questions about Dvalishvili's participation in his upcoming fight against Marlon Moraes, as he was absent from face-offs. Nurmagomedov remains in police custody following the attack.
- •Makhachev holds Dvalishvili accountable for starting the feud.
- •The altercation follows a previous confrontation in Tbilisi, Georgia.
- •Nurmagomedov was arrested after attacking Dvalishvili during the scuffle.
- •Dvalishvili's participation in his upcoming fight against Moraes is uncertain.
- •Prominent fighters have criticized Nurmagomedov's actions following the attack.
- 4:45 PMYahoo Sports — Islam Makhachev Blames Merab Dvalishvili for Sparking Feud at UFC Georgia That Led to Usman Nurmagomedov’s Attack
"Islam Makhachev points to the instance where Merab Dvalishvili got into an altercation with a Dagestani wrestler that led to the Abu Dhabi attack.
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