Usman Nurmagomedov and a group of associates in Abu Dhabi ambushed former UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili and a friend in a hotel lobby earlier this week. Video of the incident has emerged and authorities worked quick to detain and sentence those involved.
Dvalishvili was initially detained but later released after paying a fine. On ‘Friday, “The Machine” released a statement addressing the wild altercation.
“Just want to let everyone know I have been released and I am good,healthy and ready to go,” he wrote on X. “I want to thank everyone in Abu Dhabi for your help in resolving this matter. I love visiting Abu Dhabi and am happy to be welcomed. I do hope that they release everyone – i would not press charges. I want peace and the best for all. Thanks everyone for your love and support.”
Just want to let everyone know I have been released and I am good,healthy and ready to go . I want to thank everyone in Abu Dhabi for your help in resolving this matter. I love visiting Abu Dhabi and am happy to be welcomed. I do hope that they release everyone – i would not…
— Merab “The Machine” Dvalishvili (@MerabDvalishvil) November 13, 2026
Dvalishvili last fought at UFC 333 on October 24, losing to current champion Petr Yan in a trilogy bout. He was in Abu Dhabi to make his RAF return against former UFC title challenger Marlon Moraes.