Merab Dvalishvili stunned the MMA community on 9 Jul 2026 by publicly backing an underdog for the UFC 329 main event, the highly anticipated rematch between Conor McGregor and Max Holloway.
What did Dvalishvili predict?
During a live Instagram Q&A, the Georgian feather‑weight champion named Arnold Allen as his winner, citing the Englishman’s recent grappling improvements and striking volume. Allen entered the fight with a 22‑2 record, but most analysts had McGregor or Holloway as the clear favorites.
Why is his pick noteworthy?
Dvalishvili’s own fighting style revolves around relentless pressure and a suffocating pace, traits he believes Allen mirrors better than the striking‑heavy McGregor or the distance‑master Holloway. The champion also mentioned his recent sparring sessions with Allen’s camp, giving him insider insight into the fighter’s conditioning.
How could this affect the feather‑weight division?
If Allen pulls off the upset, the ripple effect could reshape the top‑10 rankings. A win would catapult him into a title‑contender spot, potentially setting up a clash with Dvalishvili himself later in the year. Conversely, a loss would reinforce the narrative that McGregor‑Holloway rematch remains the division’s marquee storyline.
What does this mean for Dvalishvili’s own career?
By aligning himself with a less‑favored fighter, Dvalishvili signals confidence in his own preparation and a willingness to speak his mind, traits that fans admire. The pick also hints at possible future matchmaking; UFC officials may consider a Dvalishvili‑Allen bout if both emerge victorious on the same card.
Fan reaction and media buzz
Social media erupted after the clip went viral. Over 120 k tweets referenced the prediction within hours, many praising Dvalishvili’s candor while others mocked the gamble. MMA journalists noted that the champion’s endorsement adds another layer of intrigue to an already stacked fight card.
What’s next for UFC 329?
The event, slated for 29 Sep 2026 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, will feature a stacked undercard, including a lightweight showdown between Islam Makhachev and Beneil Dariush. Dvalishvili is expected to fight Jalin Turner on the same night, a bout that could determine his standing heading into 2027.
The prediction may be bold, but Dvalishvili’s track record of grinding out decisions suggests he trusts the process. Whether Allen lives up to the hype remains to be seen, but the conversation Dvalishvili sparked will linger long after the final bell.