The Bantamweight division is in splits! Why? Ever since Sean O’Malley took over the division with a dominating win over Aljamain Sterling at UFC 292, he’s been at the receiving end of many callouts. However, amid these callouts and back-and-forth, there’s one Bantamweight who seems to have lost his will for UFC gold. We’re talking about the number one Bantamweight title contender Merab Dvalishvili, who also happens to be ‘Aljo’s close friend.
Now, Aljamain Sterling has yet again taken matters into his own hands. This time, he questions the underlying “politics” in the fight game and declares his take on Dana White’s distaste for ‘The Machine.’ The UFC head honcho has already bashed the 32-year-old Georgian for his stubbornness to not take up a fight against his friend ‘Aljo’ – for a title shot. So, what’s ‘The Funkmaster’ saying about White’s comments? Let’s find out!
Aljamain Sterling pens a heartfelt plea for his friend Merab Dvalishvili
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The former Bantamweight champ Aljamain Sterling is clearly not happy with Dana White’s criticism of his friendship with ‘The Machine.’ Recently, he took to his Instagram handle to share a message to all the fans about his stance on the situation. He reposted the same Contender Series interview where White had made those scathing remarks. But the twist lies in his Instagram story’s caption.
Alongside the UFC head honcho’s clip, he penned a heartfelt message for his friend. ‘The Funkmaster’ wrote: “If I don’t get a rematch bc of politics, then give @merab.dvalishvili the title shot he earned. Either way it’s a win for us. #Family”
Aljo and Merab really are family pic.twitter.com/iex7IjAWdD
— Bloody Elbow (@BloodyElbow) August 31, 2023
The message was clear – if a rematch doesn’t materialize due to UFC politics, Sterling advocates for Dvalishvili to receive the title shot he’s earned. The sentiment expressed by Sterling not only emphasized friendship – but also questioned the necessity of proving oneself in the face of bureaucracy. Moreover, fans seem to be echoing a similar opinion. How? Let’s check out some of the fan reactions to get a better understanding.
Fans are rallying behind the Bantamweight friends Aljamain Sterling and Merab Dvalishvili
Fans didn’t hold back in expressing their opinions on the matter. Their reactions shed light on the intricate balance between loyalty, friendship, and the complexities of the UFC landscape. Here’s a glimpse of the most notable fan reactions and comments:
The general sentiment reflects the strong bond that Sterling and Dvalishvili share. Fans view their friendship as unbreakable, chiming in,
Family, not even Dana can break it.
— Simon Chidozie (@Blown_boy) August 31, 2023
Loyalty! Something Dana can’t relate to
— Chapin_42 (@mynpimentel) August 31, 2023
Just because Dana would step on his own friends for business doesn’t mean Merab and Aljo would…
— Kyle Anthony’s UFC Betting (@KyleAnthonyUFC) August 31, 2023
Aljo and Merab — a duo that’s redefining ‘family goals’ in the MMA world. Blood and sweat thicker than water. 👊💥
— MemezAway! 🤟 (@memezaway) August 31, 2023
A comment predicts that Dana White might not grant Dvalishvili the title shot, remarking,
Dana 100% not gonna give merab a title shot
— Nic 🏰 (@Nic_castle_) August 31, 2023
Moreover, one fan expresses confusion over Dana White’s stance, calling for Dvalishvili to receive the title shot he’s earned.
Yes I don’t get what Dana is on about. Give Merab the title shot, end of story! Dana has to always prove to us that he the boss. Ok we get that! But why the need for proving 😩
— my silly x (@mysillyX) August 31, 2023
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Love the bromance but Aljo vs Merab would be an interesting storyline. The winner can fight O’Malley after he fights Chito.
— ChatoElWato.Crypto 🔺 (@ChatoElWato) August 31, 2023
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But as ‘Aljo’ looks forward to bouncing back from his recent setback, the spotlight shines on his friendship with Merab Dvalishvili. What do you think? Will the UFC head honcho change his stance on ‘The Machine’s place in the UFC? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
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