In a rare show of respect, UFC legend Conor McGregor recently gave Merab Dvalishvili a significant nod—one that fans did not expect at all. The Irishman, who has been out of action for more than three years, reshared a video uploaded by MMA On Point on X that highlighted Dvalishvili’s disputed 2018 loss to Ricky Simon. In the clip, ‘The Machine’ is seen being choked for about a minute, refusing to tap or lose consciousness before the fight was declared a technical submission. It was Dvalishvili’s final MMA loss—and one that, years later, still earns admiration for how far he has come.

McGregor took to X and reshared the clip as he wrote, “And now, years on, the reigning, defending UFC World Champion! Magnificent! Merab is A Star!” The praise was significant because it came from one of the sport’s most well-known figures. The Irishman’s tweet praised Dvalishvili’s determination in the face of defeat, as well as his subsequent winning streak. In a day when fighters are typically defined by highlight-reel finishes, ‘The Notorious’ opted to emphasize something much deeper: resolve under pressure.

Merab, the current bantamweight champion, kept his response classy and brief. He responded with “Much love Conor 🦾🇮🇪” on X, indicating mutual respect between two fighters who had both endured early difficulties in their careers. It was a subtle yet strong exchange that garnered notice ahead of Dvalishvili’s forthcoming UFC 316 championship defense, in which he will face former champion Sean O’Malley. The fight has fans buzzing, and McGregor’s endorsement has just heightened the excitement.

For Dvalishvili, the recognition is another chapter in a life marked by perseverance and self-belief. From nearly getting cut after a 0-2 UFC start to now headlining pay-per-views, the Georgian heavyweight has turned the tables. And for Conor McGregor, who made his own career by betting on himself, backing fighters like ‘The Machine’ helps him stay connected to the sport’s gritty roots. Moments like this, whether inside or outside the cage, serve as a reminder to fans of what MMA is actually about. However, no matter how sweet this little moment may be, troubles aren’t over for Dvalishvili, as there are rumors about Sean O’Malley being injured. So, are there any backup plans?

Merab Dvalishvili might gear up for a surprise move

While McGregor’s endorsement lit up the timeline, there’s an unsettling buzz that’s quickly crept into the conversation. Rumors of Sean O’Malley walking on crutches have fueled fears that the UFC 316 main event would collapse before it even begins. It’s an odd twist—just as ‘The Machine’ basks in the heat of recognition, uncertainty appears. The viral video of O’Malley has fans wondering, but without a timestamp or proof, the truth remains unknown. For the time being, all we can do is wait. But Merab Dvalishvili, never one to sit still, may already be searching beyond just one name.

Talks of a potential weight class jump have quietly resurfaced—but not in the typical callout-heavy, chest-thumping manner that many fighters approach it. The Georgian, as grounded as ever, approached the idea with a combination of curiosity and discipline. In an interview with Jake Shields, he said that if a superfight made true sense, he would consider it. But he soon clarified that his primary goal remains to clean up the bantamweight class. For him, it isn’t about pursuing dazzling belts or making headlines. It’s about legacy, which entails going through each top contender one by one.

Still, the idea of a jump in weight—even if just a “maybe”—adds an intriguing twist to his narrative. Merab Dvalishvili has defeated some of the greatest in his division, and he’s on a 12-fight winning streak that’s starting to outgrow his 135-pound physique. The fact that he politely declined the BMF title conversation with a simple  “No, I’m good” reveals a lot about his mental state. He does not want gimmicks; he wants purpose. And if ‘Sugar’ drops out of UFC 316, the UFC may simply entice him with something too huge to pass up. Whether it’s a last-minute opponent or a foray into unknown territory, Merab Dvalishvili is certainly prepared for everything. What do you think? Will we get to see ‘The Machine’ face O’Malley? Let us know in the comments.