Raf Georgia Brawl As Dvalishvili Slams Nurmagomedov

RAF Georgia’s Title Fight Takes Center Stage

Real American Freestyle (RAF) is shaping up to be another event where tensions flare, given its reputation for wild altercations that often involve UFC veterans. Tomorrow’s card in Tbilisi, Georgia, will feature former UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili facing ex‑UFC flyweight and bantamweight title holder Henry Cejudo. The matchup promises to be a highlight, drawing eyeballs to the fledgling promotion’s second stop of the year. Atlanta‑based fans can tune in to see if the spotlight on this duel can keep the drama focused inside the ring.

Press Conference Turns Violent Over Old Grievances

When the media gathered for the pre‑fight press conference, tempers quickly boiled over. A group of Umar Nurmagomedov allies approached Dvalishvili to confront him about recent remarks linking Umar to his surname. Dvalishvili responded bluntly, saying, “No, never, f–k that guy,” and added that he would fight anyone RAF booked except “this spoiled guy.” The heated exchange sparked a scuffle, with several of Nurmagomedov’s teammates and supporters getting involved. The incident turned what should have been a routine promo into a chaotic showdown.

Rivalry Timeline: From January 2025 Showdown to Today

The seeds of the current friction were sown in January 2025, when Dvalishvili and Nurmagomedov crossed swords in a bantamweight title bout. The fight ended with Dvalishvili earning a narrow victory via a 48–47, 48–47, 49–46 scorecard. Nurmagomedov’s camp later claimed that a badly broken hand had handcuffed his fighter, preventing a more decisive performance. Fans on both sides have debated the outcome ever since, fueling speculation about a possible rematch. Meanwhile, Dvalishvili has consistently downplayed the idea of another fight with Umar, insisting he has bigger fish to fry.

Looking Ahead: Dvalishvili’s Fight Plans

Despite persistent rumors of a rematch, Dvalishvili has made it clear that an immediate bout with Nurmagomedov is not on his radar. He has revealed that an immediate rematch with current champion Petr Yan is in the works, suggesting his focus lies elsewhere. This stance has further intensified the rivalry, turning it into a storyline that captivates fans who now clamour for a second chapter between the two fighters. Whether RAF will manage to insert a grudge‑match into its future schedule remains to be seen, but the chemistry between the camps is undeniably electric.

Key Takeaways from the RAF Georgia Card

• Event: RAF Georgia – Saturday, July 11, 2026, Tbilisi.
• Main Event: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Henry Cejudo.
• Previous Clash: Dvalishvili defeated Umar Nurmagomedov by 48–47, 48–47, 49–46 in January 2025.
• Current Rivalry: Dvalishvili’s outspoken remarks sparked a press‑conference brawl with Nurmagomedov’s supporters.
• Future Plans: Dvalishvili eyes a rematch with Petr Yan rather than a second fight with Nurmagomedov.