Usman Nurmagomedov’s Hotel Lobby Altercation With Merab Dvalishvili Threatens UFC Future

Usman Nurmagomedov—the younger brother of Umar Nurmagomedov and cousin of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev—is once again at the center of controversy, this time involving former bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili. The undefeated free agent, widely expected to join the UFC, may have jeopardized his path to the promotion.

During a hotel lobby interview for RAF Wrestling, Usman approached Merab from behind and struck him with a slap, sparking a multi-person brawl. A group associated with Dagestan clashed with Merab and his companion, wrestler Saba Lazishvili, who has since gained significant attention for his performance in the scuffle. Both Georgians were left bruised and bloodied. Merab later took to social media to label them “snakes and cowards.”

Law enforcement is now investigating the incident. Meanwhile, Usman’s rumored UFC signing—reportedly slated for announcement during this weekend’s Madison Square Garden card—hangs in the balance. The altercation follows a prior incident involving Merab and one of Umar’s associates, in which Usman delivered a slap during a one-on-one encounter. That episode came after Merab’s bout with Umar, a fight built on considerable animosity.

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev sought to defend his cousin, suggesting Merab’s behavior precipitated the confrontation. However, many UFC fans and fighters have criticized the group attack on two smaller individuals, noting that ambushing someone with a slap differs fundamentally from a face-to-face confrontation.

An active police investigation could bring legal consequences. Usman also has a documented history of legal trouble in his native country and previously entered the octagon after his brother’s devastating knockout loss, nearly sparking another brawl—an episode many dismissed as familial loyalty.

Despite the controversy, Usman remains one of the most talented free agents available. Ilia Topuria has weighed in on the situation, and the UFC may view a potential rivalry between Usman and Merab as an appealing future matchup. In my view, the promotion is unlikely to walk away from signing Usman, though further consequences could arise if additional incidents occur. All eyes are now on the potential criminal repercussions.

Source link