Winner: Merab Dvalishvili
Confidence Score: 75Merab Dvalishvili is likely to win due to his relentless wrestling pace, cardio, and ability to neutralize striking-focused opponents. In their previous matchup, Merab set a record for takedown attempts and controlled the tempo, outworking Petr Yan over five rounds. Dvalishvili averages more takedowns per fight than almost any other bantamweight, and his takedown defense (83%) is elite, making it difficult for opponents to reverse position. While Yan has superior striking accuracy (54% vs. 42%) and defense, Merab's pace, durability, and ability to chain wrestle have proven to be the antidote to Yan's methodical boxing. Fighters with a similar age and wrestling-heavy approach have historically had success against high-output strikers who rely on range and timing. Merab's recent win streak and his ability to maintain a high work rate deep into championship rounds give him the edge in a five-round title fight scenario.
Live odds
Live and historic odds as well as more fighter statistics and insights for Merab Dvalishvili vs Petr Yan can be found on the fighter matchup page. All the fighter matchups and live odds for Dvalishvili vs Yan 2 can be found on the Dvalishvili vs Yan 2 event page.
