With a win over former champion Petr Yan on Saturday at UFC Vegas 71, Merab Dvalishvili has inched his way closer to the top. Sitting on that spot, of course, is Aljamain Sterling, a close friend and training partner of Merab’s over at Serra-Longo in Long Island.
During his Octagon interview with Daniel Cormier, Merab stated his willingness to fight for the 135-pound title, but only when “Funkmaster” moves up in weight.
“He’s the real champion,” Merab said of Sterling, who was in his corner that night. “But whenever he decide to go up a weight class, and then fight the next challenger, whoever will be there.