At UFC 320, Merab “The Machine” Dvalishvili once again demonstrated his ground wrestling dominance by defeating American Cory Sandhagen, successfully defending his under-61 kg bantamweight title for the third consecutive time.
The fight started cautiously, with both fighters exchanging strikes in the center of the octagon. Sandhagen showed precision with his stand-up attacks, landing multiple shots on the champion, while Dvalishvili responded with pressure and grappling, though the American’s defense remained solid.
By the second round, the momentum shifted in favor of the Georgian champion. Dvalishvili landed a powerful flurry that temporarily knocked Sandhagen down. Taking advantage of the opening, “The Machine” followed up with repeated takedowns, wearing down his opponent and asserting clear control over the bout.
Rounds three and four were marked by relentless pressure from Dvalishvili, limiting Sandhagen’s offensive options. Despite a brief stand-up counter from the challenger, the champion effectively used his judo skills to dominate on the ground.
👑 Le roi géorgien Mirab Dvalishvili conserve son titre à #UFC320 !
Décision unanime après un combat dominé de bout en bout. 💪🥊 pic.twitter.com/TbsxkY5hjQ
— mmamag.ma (@jamalsoussi10) October 5, 2025
In the fifth and final round, Dvalishvili continued his takedown showcase, setting new records and finishing the fight in complete control. The judges awarded him a unanimous decision (49-45, 49-45, 49-46).
🏆 AND STILL! Merab Dvalishvili dominates Cory Sandhagen and wins by unanimous decision. 🇬🇪👑 3rd successful title defense! 😍 #UFC320
🏆 وما زال! ميراب دفاليشفيلي يسيطر على كوري ساندهاجن ويحقق الفوز بالقرار الإجماعي. 🇬🇪👑 ثالث دفاع ناجح عن اللقب! 😍 #UFC320 pic.twitter.com/h98nMXRyuQ
— mmamag.ma (@jamalsoussi10) October 5, 2025
With this victory, Merab Dvalishvili cements himself as an unstoppable force in the bantamweight division, and his pressure-and-wrestling style continues to make him one of the most formidable champions in global MMA.
