Topuria Says Nurmagomedov Detained After Merab Attack

UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria says Usman Nurmagomedov was detained following a hotel brawl that left Merab Dvalishvili bloodied in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.

The PFL lightweight was allegedly involved in an ambush on the former UFC bantamweight champion inside a hotel, according to MMA Mania. Dvalishvili and a friend were filming an interview ahead of this weekend's Real American Freestyle event when Nurmagomedov and several associates approached from behind. Footage shared by Topuria shows Nurmagomedov slapping Dvalishvili before a scuffle breaks out.

Topuria Blasts Nurmagomedov Team Over Ambush

Topuria released 37 seconds of video from the incident and issued a lengthy statement condemning the attack. He wrote on X that Nurmagomedov and those with him had been taken into custody, though Abu Dhabi authorities and RAF officials had not confirmed any arrests at press time. "Usman has reportedly been detained, along with the cowards who were with him," Topuria posted. "And these are the same people who dare to preach about humility and respect? What a disgrace. A bunch of absolute cowards."

Dvalishvili told reporters the group came at him like snakes from behind. He accused Umar Nurmagomedov, Usman's cousin and the man he beat for the UFC bantamweight title at UFC 311 in January 2025, of being present during the attack. The bad blood between Dvalishvili and Umar has simmered since that title fight.

Despite the cut that left his face covered in blood, Dvalishvili said he was fine. His wrestling match against former UFC opponent Marlon Moraes remains on the RAF Abu Dhabi card Saturday, while Umar is scheduled to face UFC Hall of Famer Urijah Faber on the same show.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Ilia Topuria claims Usman Nurmagomedov detained after Merab Dvalishvili ambush — ‘Absolute cowards’