Dvalishvili Reveals Training Switch For Yan Trilogy

Merab Dvalishvili has brought in a private wrestling coach as he prepares for a trilogy bout with Petr Yan.

The former UFC bantamweight champion lost his title to Yan via unanimous decision last December after the Russian shut down his wrestling and controlled the standup. That result squared their series at one apiece following Dvalishvili's dominant takedown clinic in their 2023 Fight Night main event.

New Wrestling Coach Brought In For Yan Rematch

Dvalishvili confirmed the addition of coach Jesse for private sessions at Q MMA in Las Vegas. "This is my second training session and I have a private wrestling session with coach Jesse," he said in a recent YouTube vlog, per Sherdog. "He's my new coach; he's been helping me with private training."

The Georgian stressed he is changing his approach after working harder but not smarter ahead of the December setback. "The last time I fought Petr, I was working hard. This time, I'm working smart," Dvalishvili said. "That's what I need, and I think I'm going to make a big difference. I'm going to take my belt back."

Yan showcased major improvements in his defensive wrestling in the rematch, stuffing most of the takedown attempts that buried him in their first meeting. Dvalishvili set the UFC record for most takedown attempts in a five-round fight during that 2023 victory, repeatedly dragging Yan to the canvas on his way to a comfortable decision.

No date has been announced for the potential trilogy fight.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Merab Dvalishvili reveals training changes ahead of Petr Yan trilogy fight