The UFC bantamweight division is currently in a state of upheaval, with Merab Dvalishvili and Umar Nurmagomedov at odds following Dvalishvili’s recent victory over Sean O’Malley for the division gold.

When asked about a potential title defense against Nurmagomedov, ‘The Machine’ chose to sidestep the question, focusing instead on his desire to fight in March. However, this timeline conflicts with Nurmagomedov’s plans for Ramadan, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. Amidst this uncertainty, UFC CEO Dana White has stepped in to clarify the future for both fighters, hinting that a resolution regarding the title defense is on the horizon.

Dana White declares what is next for Umar Nurmagomedov

During the UFC 308 presser, there were many questions regarding the immediate future of the 135lbs division. Many reporters were keen and threw their questions at the boss about the ongoing beef between the two fighters. The head honcho only had one answer: “Umar.”

One reporter asked, “Merab said that he wants to rematch O’Malley at the end of this year or the beginning of next year. What’s the situation?” White swiftly replied, “Umar that’s what I think.” So as long as the boss does not say the name out loud, the fights are as good as gone. But since he mentioned ‘Young Eagle’s’ name with a smirk, it is pretty evident that the Dagestani is next.

Nurmagomedov vs. Dwalishvili is certainly on the cards and will prove to be an exciting scrap. Previously, Umar had been in talks to fight Song Yadong in December, stating that he wasn’t willing to wait for Dvalishvili. This posed a dilemma for the new champion, who is eager to fight in February or March of 2025, but those months coincide with Ramadan, during which Nurmagomedov wouldn’t be able to compete.

Dvalishvili’s confusion stems from the potential matchup between Nurmagomedov and Yadong, especially since it seemed to jeopardize his timeline for a title defense. Fortunately for Dvalishvili, reports have now surfaced that the Yadong vs. Nurmagomedov fight has been canceled, but the uncertainty surrounding the bantamweight division continues. As both fighters navigate their paths, fans are left wondering how this rivalry will unfold.

Merab Dvalishvili was bewildered about Nurmagomedov’s upcoming fight

During his appearance on the Ariel Helwani show, Merab Dvalishvili expressed his confusion over the alleged fight between Umar Nurmagomedov and Song Yadong. “I have no idea why Umar is fighting Song. For me, it’s good—it’s another test for him, and he has to prove himself. I think it’s a good fight. But he was saying he’s the next contender, and the UFC is giving him a title fight,” the Georgian explained.

Additionally, ‘The Machine’ pointed out the inconsistency in Nurmagomedov’s claims of being the number one contender, questioning why he would take another fight if that were the case. Adding to the drama, Nurmagomedov took to X to clarify that Yadong had suffered an injury and that the Dagestani was ready to take on anybody. He stated, “I am always ready, and right now I am waiting for an opponent. Merab, before my fight with Cory Sandhagen, you said that if I beat him, I would deserve recognition. Now you’ve changed your position—decide who you are. All fans and analysts are noticing how you are avoiding the fight. Championship is recognition, but you haven’t received it, and you know that perfectly well.”

Despite the ongoing speculation, Dana White confirmed that no official fight between Nurmagomedov and Yadong had been announced. Instead, fans should look forward to a title defense between Nurmagomedov and Dvalishvili. The tension between Team Dvalishvili and Team Khabib is palpable and seems poised to culminate in an exciting showdown.

What do you make of this back-and-forth? Will Dvalishvili and Nurmagomedov settle their differences in the octagon soon? Share your thoughts in the comments below!