Merab Dvalishvili stepped into the MMA Junkie Radio studio on July 5, 2026, joining host Diego Lopes for episode #3680. The Georgia‑born featherweight talked up his next UFC fight in Baku, offering fans fresh perspective on his preparation and the event’s card.
What did Merab Dvalishvili discuss?
During the hour‑long broadcast, Dvalishvili broke down his training camp, emphasizing the grind behind his relentless pace. He highlighted a new conditioning drill his team added in early June, which he believes will shave seconds off his takedown attempts. The fighter also praised his striking coach, noting a recent focus on low‑kick combinations to complement his grappling.
How does the Baku event fit his career?
The upcoming UFC Baku card, scheduled for August 3, 2026, marks Dvalishvili’s first fight in the Caucasus region. He sees the venue as a chance to connect with fans from his home country’s neighboring markets. A win would push him into the top‑five featherweight rankings, a spot he’s chased since his 2023 title‑contending run.
Who else was featured on the show?
Besides Dvalishvili, the episode welcomed Diego Lopes, a rising Brazilian prospect, for a brief interview. Lopes shared his own fight‑week routine and expressed excitement about sharing the octagon with Dvalishvili’s future opponent. The hosts also previewed other Baku matchups, including a co‑main event featuring Alexander Volkanovski.
Why does this appearance matter to fans?
Listeners get a rare glimpse of Dvalishvili’s mindset outside the cage. He opened up about the mental pressure of maintaining a high‑output style and how his team uses video analysis to tweak minute‑by‑minute decisions. The candid tone gave fans a sense of the fighter’s humility and relentless work ethic.
What’s next for Merab Dvalishvili?
After the radio stint, Dvalishvili returns to his camp in Georgia for a final sparring session on July 12. He’s slated to cut weight on July 28, aiming for a smooth walk‑in at 145 lb. The fighter hinted at a possible post‑Baku fight, saying he’s already eyeing a potential showdown with Yair Rodriguez later in the year.
The episode wrapped with Dvalishvili thanking the audience and promising to bring “more action than ever” to the octagon. Fans can replay the full interview on the MMA Junkie website or subscribe to the podcast for future updates.