UFC Bantamweight Champion Petr Yan has put to rest speculation about his next title defense, confirming that his next opponent won’t rely upon the final result of any fights at UFC 324. As a substitute, he revealed that Merab Dvalishvili has been promised a right away rematch once fully recovered from injury.
Petr Yan says the #UFC324 match-ups won’t determine his next opponent because Merab Dvalishvili has been promised a right away rematch.
“As soon as Merab is prepared and fully recovered, it will occur. Either this spring or summer,” Yan said on the recent @IBA_Pro_Boxing… pic.twitter.com/KxWFxKY7Km
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) January 24, 2026
Speaking on the IBA Pro Boxing event in Dubai, Yan provided rare clarity concerning the bantamweight division’s short-term future. “As soon as Merab is prepared and fully recovered, it will occur. Either this spring or summer,” Yan said, underscoring the UFC’s commitment to run back their high-octane title fight.
Yan and Dvalishvili last met in what was one among 2025’s most intense championship bouts—a grueling, tactical clash that saw Yan reclaim the 135-pound belt via decision. Despite the final result, many considered the fight close enough to warrant a second meeting, especially given Dvalishvili’s momentum leading as much as the competition. His relentless pressure and record-breaking pace had earned him a lengthy win streak and positioned him because the rightful contender for gold.
PETR YAN CRACKED THE PUZZLE AND DEFEATS MERAB DVALISHVILI 🤯 pic.twitter.com/rCfE5SaYXn
— Full Violence ™ (@Full_Violence) December 7, 2025
While upcoming UFC 324 matchups—including several top contenders within the division—are expected to shape future title implications, Yan made it clear those results won’t factor into his immediate plans. “The following one is Merab,” Yan reiterated, signaling each respect for his rival and confidence in resuming one among the division’s most compelling rivalries.
The bantamweight picture otherwise stays crowded, with contenders like Umar Nurmagomedov and Sean O’Malley eyeing a title shot later within the yr. But for now, the road to the belt leads directly back through Dvalishvili—a fighter whose cardio, pace, and grappling-heavy style loosk to reclaim bantamweight gold.
If the UFC follows Yan’s timetable, a spring or summer 2026 rematch between Yan and Dvalishvili could headline a significant card—potentially establishing one among the yr’s most anticipated title fights. For Yan, it represents each a title defense and a possibility to settle unfinished business with one among the hardest foes of his profession.