Merab Dvalishvili has recalled a terrifying ordeal from his childhood that nearly cost him his life.
The UFC bantamweight champion, who defends his belt against Cory Sandhagen on October 4 at UFC 320 in Las Vegas, opened up in an interview with Daniel Cormier about how, at just six years old, he almost drowned in a river in Georgia.
“My brother was swimming in a river, I jumped in to find him, and I couldn’t do the same,” Dvalishvili said. “The water took me into deep water, it was fast. I was under the water, and my other brother saw me. I couldn’t scream. I grabbed a big rock underwater. I was under the water, hugging the rock. Soon after, I learned how to swim.”
Fortunately, he survived the frightening incident and came away unharmed — though the experience left a lasting mark.
Now known for his relentless fighting style and fearless personality, Dvalishvili is embracing another challenge as he prepares to defend his title. Confident as ever, he sent a warning to Sandhagen ahead of their highly anticipated clash, vowing to deliver another big performance inside the Octagon.
