Early Life & Ethnicity
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Merab Dvalishvili was born on January 10, 1991, in Vani village near Tbilisi, Georgia (then Georgian SSR, Soviet Union).
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He is ethnically Caucasian / Georgian — originally Georgian, and in March 2024 he became a naturalized citizen of the United States, now holding dual Georgian-American nationality.
Physical Stats — Height, Weight & Reach
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Height: 5 ft 6 in (168 cm)
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Weight Class: Bantamweight (135 lb / ~61 kg)
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Reach: 68 in (173 cm)
Net Worth (2025 Estimate)
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As of 2025, many sources estimate his net worth between USD 1.8 million and USD 2.5 million.
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Some profiles put a more conservative estimate around USD 1.5–2.0 million.
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His income stems from a mix of fight purses, performance bonuses, endorsement deals, and occasional earnings from social media or appearances.
MMA Career & Record Highlights (as of Late 2025)
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Professional debut: January 24, 2014.
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Competes in the Bantamweight division of the UFC.
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As of late 2025, his MMA record stands at approximately 21 wins and 4 losses.
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A distinguishing trait: Dvalishvili holds the record for the most takedowns in UFC history (117 successful takedowns) — a testament to his wrestling-heavy style and relentless pace.
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Known for his “machine-like” cardio, pressure, and grappling — often overwhelming opponents with pace rather than relying solely on striking power.
Achievements & Status
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Dvalishvili is widely regarded as the first Georgian-born UFC champion, making history with his ascent in the bantamweight division.
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As of 2025, he remains among the top bantamweights in UFC and is often ranked high in pound-for-pound lists.
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His humility — from once working construction before fighting to now defending titles — resonates with fans globally, adding to his popularity both inside and outside the cage.
Notes & Why Figures Vary
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Estimates of net worth vary because they depend heavily on undisclosed sources: fight purses, bonuses, sponsorships, social media deals, and fluctuating endorsement income.
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MMA records may change — some sources list 18 wins, others 21 — depending on whether earlier regional, non-UFC fights are counted or if recent fights have happened.
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Reach, height, and weight are fairly consistent across reliable sources (like UFC & ESPN), making his physical stats fairly solid.
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