The Georgian UFC fighter Merab Dvalishvili was in the center of the scandal after the title protection. It turned out that he provided the athletic commission of California inaccurate information before the battle of Umar Nurmagomedov.

Now Merab should be held accountable.

Why did Dvalishvili go for deception?

Before going to Octagon, fighters are required to undergo a medical examination and report all injuries. However, according to Merab himself, he deliberately did not mention damage to his right leg in order to preserve the opportunity to speak. The reasons for such a decision lie in the desire not to miss the chance to conduct a significant battle, as well as in possible financial losses in case of cancellation of the match.

– The cut on the leg was still open, it healed for a long time. It completely closed a few days before the battle. Then I worried that the commission would not allow me to fight, and used creams every day, did massage and so on.

In California, a very strict commission, they checked everything on my body. During the inspection, I had pants, and the guy from the commission asked me to demonstrate his leg, the lower leg, and I raised the left leg and showed him [неповрежденную] shin. The guy continued to speak, and then asked to show another leg. I showed my left leg again. And then it all ended, he never found out about the cut, ”said Dvalishvili in an interview with journalist Ariel Helvani.

Merab Dasvalishvili and Umar Nurmagomedov / Photo: © Harry How / Staff / Getty Images Sport / Gettyimages.ru

Possible consequences for Dvalishvili

After disclosure of information about the injury, the athletic commission may consider the issue of applying sanctions against a fighter. He may face a disqualification or fine, which will negatively affect his career. UFC can also take additional measures, including the removal of a fighter from performances, although it is hard to believe it.

Despite the hidden injury, Dvalishvili looked with dignity in the battle of Umar and defeated the unanimous decision of the judges. However, the desire to add drama can come out sideways.