Merab Dvalishvili Attacked in Abu Dhabi as Nurmagomedov Rivalry Escalates

Former UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili is at the center of a violent altercation in Abu Dhabi. The incident involves Usman Nurmagomedov and several members of his entourage.

The confrontation happened on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. Dvalishvili was filming promotional content ahead of his scheduled wrestling match at Real American Freestyle (RAF) Abu Dhabi.

Hotel Lobby Confrontation

Footage shared by fellow Georgian fighter Ilia Topuria shows Dvalishvili standing in front of a camera. A group then approaches him from behind. Usman Nurmagomedov gets his attention before striking him in the face.

The situation quickly turns into a chaotic brawl. Several people join the confrontation, while Dvalishvili and a friend attempt to defend themselves. During the fight, someone lifts Dvalishvili and slams him onto the floor.

Hotel security and other people eventually separate the groups.

Dvalishvili Speaks After the Attack

Dvalishvili later shares a video on Instagram while receiving medical attention. His face appears bloodied and swollen, with a noticeable injury around his head and eye.

He claims that approximately 20 people ambushed him and his friend. He also alleges that members of the group continued kicking them during the confrontation.

Despite his injuries, Dvalishvili insists that he is fine and remains ready to compete.

Topuria also reacts to the footage. He condemns the alleged attackers and calls them cowards in a post on X. He later claims that Usman and members of his group have been detained by Abu Dhabi authorities. However, no independent official confirmation of that claim has emerged.

A Rivalry With a History

The incident adds another chapter to the ongoing tension between Dvalishvili and the Nurmagomedov camp.

Dvalishvili defeated Umar Nurmagomedov by unanimous decision at UFC 311 in January 2025. The victory allowed him to retain his UFC bantamweight championship.

Tensions reportedly increased again in August 2026. Dvalishvili allegedly slapped Umar’s associate, Ahmed Gadzhimagomedov, during a backstage confrontation at an RAF event in Georgia.

Dvalishvili now accuses both Usman and Umar of involvement in the Abu Dhabi attack. However, the extent of each person’s participation remains unconfirmed.

RAF Abu Dhabi Under Pressure

The altercation comes just days before RAF Abu Dhabi on Saturday, November 14, at Etihad Arena.

Dvalishvili is scheduled to face former UFC fighter Marlon Moraes. Meanwhile, Umar Nurmagomedov is booked to compete against Urijah Faber.

The incident also raises questions about Usman Nurmagomedov’s career plans. The former Bellator and PFL lightweight champion recently became a free agent. He has also attracted attention over a possible move to the UFC.

For now, questions remain about the fighters’ participation in Saturday’s event. An official update from Abu Dhabi authorities or the Nurmagomedov camp could bring further developments.

Video coverage: The hotel lobby footage shared by Ilia Topuria is available on Instagram via @buzzinonlinenews.