Merab Dvalishvili is set to fight Petr Yan in a trilogy match, despite breaking his nose in two places during a training session.
What happened?
Dvalishvili broke his nose early this month after getting kneed, but he plans to delay surgery to continue training for the fight.
He has a history of competing with injuries, having beaten Umar Nurmagomedov with a severe leg infection and back injury.
Why it matters for Merab Dvalishvili
Dvalishvili's determination to fight through injuries has earned him the nickname "The Machine".
He fell short of making four successful title defenses in one year after losing to Yan at UFC 323.
What comes next?
Dvalishvili is scheduled to face Henry Cejudo in a freestyle wrestling match at RAF 08 before his trilogy fight with Yan.
He is anticipating a July or August date for the fight, although the UFC has not announced it yet.
Dvalishvili has praised Yan as a great fighter and is looking forward to the challenge.
He has taken the loss to Yan in stride, focusing on his upcoming fights and his goal to become the best bantamweight fighter.
Dvalishvili's injury has not deterred him from training, and he is confident in his ability to win the trilogy fight.
The UFC has promised Dvalishvili an immediate trilogy fight, which he is eager to take on.
Dvalishvili's experience and skill make him a strong contender for the bantamweight title.
He is ready to face Yan again and prove his worth as a fighter.
The trilogy fight between Dvalishvili and Yan is highly anticipated, with many expecting a intense and competitive match.
Dvalishvili's training and preparation will be crucial in determining the outcome of the fight.
He is focused on his goal and is not letting his injury hold him back.
Dvalishvili's match against Cejudo will be a good test of his skills before the trilogy fight.
He is looking forward to the challenge and is confident in his ability to win.
The outcome of the trilogy fight will depend on various factors, including Dvalishvili's training and Yan's strategy.
Dvalishvili's experience and skill give him an edge, but Yan is also a skilled fighter.
The fight is expected to be closely contested, with both fighters giving their all.
Dvalishvili's determination and resilience make him a strong contender for the bantamweight title.
He is ready to face whatever challenges come his way and is focused on his goal.
The trilogy fight between Dvalishvili and Yan will be an exciting and intense match.
Dvalishvili's training and preparation will be crucial in determining the outcome.
He is confident in his ability to win and is looking forward to the challenge.