RAF Confirms Dvalishvili Released After Nurmagomedov Brawl

Real American Freestyle confirmed former UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili has been released from custody in Abu Dhabi following a hotel attack earlier this week.

Dvalishvili is slated to face Marlon Moraes at RAF Abu Dhabi on Saturday, but his fight week took a violent turn when former PFL lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov and a group that included UFC contender Umar Nurmagomedov reportedly ambushed him at his hotel, according to MMA Fighting. Video of the incident spread widely, showing Dvalishvili bruised and bloodied. All parties were taken into custody, casting doubt on whether the scheduled wrestling match would proceed.

RAF Statement On Dvalishvili's Return

On Friday, RAF issued a statement updating fans on Dvalishvili's status. "I'm pleased to share that Merab Dvalishvili is back with us in Abu Dhabi," CEO and co-founder Chad Bronstein wrote. "We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the relevant authorities in Abu Dhabi for their professionalism and support." The promotion did not confirm whether Dvalishvili will compete Saturday.

RAF banned Usman from attending the event, announcing the decision at Thursday's press conference. The altercation stems from longstanding friction between Dvalishvili and the Nurmagomedov cousins. Dvalishvili defended his UFC bantamweight strap against Umar at UFC 311 in January 2025, winning by unanimous decision, and the two had a tense face-off at RAF Georgia in August.

Usman and others involved reportedly face up to six months in jail. The undefeated fighter, currently a free agent after his PFL title run, could see his UFC prospects complicated by the incident. Dvalishvili's bout with Moraes is scheduled for Saturday night in Abu Dhabi.

Reported via:

• MMA Fighting — RAF releases update on Merab Dvalishvili’s status following hotel brawl with Usman Nurmagomedov