Petr Yan settled his rivalry with Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 333 after another demanding five-round battle in Abu Dhabi. The Russian champion survived relentless early wrestling pressure before taking control through accurate striking and effective takedown defense. The Petr Yan vs Merab Dvalishvili 3 Result ended in a unanimous decision, with Yan retaining his bantamweight championship. The victory gave him a 2-1 advantage in their three-fight rivalry.
Petr Yan vs Merab Dvalishvili 3 Result: Champion Wins 48-47 on All Three Scorecards
Petr Yan (21-5) defeated Merab Dvalishvili (21-6) by unanimous decision in the UFC 333 co-main event. Their bantamweight championship trilogy took place on October 24, 2026, at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. All three judges awarded Yan a 48-47 victory after five competitive rounds.
Dvalishvili entered the contest hoping to reclaim the championship he lost to Yan in December 2025. The Georgian immediately established his usual aggressive approach, combining forward pressure with repeated takedown attempts. His activity made it difficult for Yan to develop an offensive rhythm during the opening rounds.
However, Yan gradually adjusted to the challenger’s wrestling and began landing increasingly effective combinations. His accurate boxing and damaging body strikes helped him change the momentum during the second half. The champion also prevented Dvalishvili from maintaining prolonged control on the canvas.
Yan ultimately secured his second consecutive victory over Dvalishvili and successfully defended his bantamweight championship. The result ended their trilogy with the Russian holding two victories against his longtime rival.
Official Result: Petr Yan defeated Merab Dvalishvili via unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 48-47).
How Petr Yan Defeated Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 333
Yan’s victory came through patience, defensive discipline, and an increasingly effective striking attack. Dvalishvili controlled much of the early action, but the champion made important adjustments as the fight progressed.
Round 1: Dvalishvili Establishes Early Wrestling Pressure
Dvalishvili started aggressively with a powerful leg kick and a stiff right hand. He then attempted to bring the fight to the ground, forcing Yan to defend several wrestling exchanges. The champion initially resisted those attacks but struggled to establish consistent striking opportunities.
The Georgian eventually secured takedowns and continued applying pressure whenever Yan returned to his feet. His relentless activity prevented the champion from controlling the distance. Dvalishvili’s early success helped him establish momentum in the opening round.
Round 2: Merab Continues Pressuring the Champion
Yan attempted to increase his striking output during the second round, but Dvalishvili maintained an aggressive pace. The challenger repeatedly changed levels and attacked Yan’s legs, forcing another series of defensive exchanges. His wrestling pressure continued limiting the Russian’s offensive opportunities.
Although Yan landed occasional counters, he struggled to maintain his preferred striking distance. Dvalishvili quickly closed the space whenever the champion attempted to establish combinations. His work rate allowed him to remain competitive while keeping Yan occupied with takedown defense.
The opening two rounds highlighted the challenge Yan faced against an opponent known for exceptional endurance. However, the champion remained composed despite spending considerable time defending wrestling attempts. That discipline became increasingly important as the contest continued.
Round 3: Yan Changes Momentum With Powerful Body Strikes
The third round marked a significant turning point as Yan began finding his striking rhythm. The Russian connected with a powerful left hook and followed with accurate combinations. Dvalishvili continued pressing forward but started absorbing more damaging strikes.
Yan also attacked the body with punches and kicks, forcing the challenger to reconsider his entries. One particularly damaging body shot briefly disrupted Dvalishvili’s movement. The Georgian recovered and continued fighting, but Yan had established greater control over the striking exchanges.
The champion’s improved takedown defense also reduced Dvalishvili’s ability to dictate the contest. Yan repeatedly prevented wrestling attempts while creating opportunities to counter. His performance during the third round helped shift the fight in his favor.
Round 4: Yan Takes Control Through Accurate Boxing
Yan continued building momentum during the fourth round with increasingly effective combinations. He repeatedly landed punches to Dvalishvili’s head and body while maintaining strong defensive positioning. His counters punished the challenger whenever he entered striking range without sufficient preparation.
Dvalishvili continued searching for takedowns but struggled to complete them consistently. Yan’s balance and positional awareness allowed him to remain standing through several difficult exchanges. The champion also began moving forward rather than simply reacting to his opponent’s pressure.
The Georgian showed considerable toughness while absorbing powerful strikes throughout the round. However, Yan’s cleaner offense and defensive success gave him greater control over the action. The momentum had clearly changed heading into the final five minutes.
Round 5: Yan Seals Victory in the Championship Round
Both fighters entered the final round knowing the championship could depend on the remaining exchanges. Dvalishvili maintained his familiar pace and continued attacking with wrestling attempts. However, Yan responded with effective takedown defense and increasingly accurate counters.
The champion landed several strong left hands and continued attacking Dvalishvili’s body. He also combined punches with kicks while preventing the challenger from establishing sustained control. His composure allowed him to produce effective offense despite the pressure.
Dvalishvili refused to abandon his aggressive approach and continued looking for opportunities until the final horn. However, Yan maintained enough control to secure the decisive round on the judges’ scorecards. All three officials eventually awarded the Russian a 48-47 victory.
Petr Yan’s Takedown Defense Proves Decisive Against Merab
Dvalishvili attempted more than 40 takedowns throughout their five-round championship contest. However, Yan successfully defended most of those attempts and quickly returned to his feet when necessary. His defensive wrestling limited the challenger’s ability to establish prolonged control.
The Georgian’s relentless pressure remained effective during the opening two rounds. Nevertheless, Yan gradually recognized his opponent’s entries and found opportunities to land damaging counters. His ability to maintain balance became increasingly important as Dvalishvili continued attacking.
Yan also used his defensive success to create offensive opportunities. Instead of spending entire rounds escaping difficult positions, he began landing punches immediately after stopping takedowns. That adjustment helped him control the later stages of the fight.
The performance reinforced Yan’s improvements since their first meeting in March 2023. His wrestling defense has become a major strength during his second championship reign. Against Dvalishvili, it allowed him to overcome one of the division’s most demanding fighting styles.
Petr Yan Settles Trilogy After Losing First Fight in 2023
Yan and Dvalishvili first met in March 2023 during a UFC Fight Night main event. The Georgian dominated that contest through relentless wrestling pressure and exceptional endurance. His unanimous decision victory established him among the division’s leading contenders.
Dvalishvili subsequently captured the UFC bantamweight championship and enjoyed a successful title reign. However, Yan earned another opportunity after rebuilding his career through victories against ranked opponents. Their second meeting took place at UFC 323 in December 2025.
Yan reversed the result through improved takedown defense and accurate striking. His unanimous decision victory ended Dvalishvili’s championship reign and brought the title back to the Russian. Their rivalry consequently stood at one victory each before UFC 333.
Saturday’s third meeting provided the opportunity to settle their competitive history. Yan successfully defended his championship and secured another decision victory over the Georgian. The outcome leaves him with a 2-1 advantage across their three contests.
Their rivalry also involved several developments outside the Octagon. Dvalishvili recently discussed ending his disagreements with Umar Nurmagomedov while preparing for the trilogy. That development followed the long-running Merab Dvalishvili Umar Nurmagomedov rivalry.
Petr Yan Reacts to UFC 333 Victory and Discusses Next Opponent
Yan credited his coaching team for helping him approach the final round with the correct strategy. He explained that his corner believed the fight stood at two rounds each. The champion therefore knew he needed another strong performance to secure victory.
During his post-fight interview, Yan also discussed possible future opponents in the bantamweight division. The Russian emphasized that he remains willing to defend his championship against any deserving challenger. He specifically mentioned Song Yadong while expressing confidence about his next title defense.
Yan previously defeated Song Yadong by unanimous decision in March 2024. However, the Chinese contender has continued developing and remains an important figure in the division. Another meeting could become a possibility depending on the UFC’s matchmaking plans.
Former bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley also remains a potential opponent for Yan. Their previous meeting in October 2022 ended with O’Malley winning a controversial split decision. However, the promotion has not confirmed either fighter as Yan’s next challenger.
For now, Yan leaves Abu Dhabi with another successful championship defense. His latest victory strengthens his position among the leading bantamweights of his generation. The UFC must now determine which contender receives the next opportunity.
Merab Dvalishvili Reacts After Second Consecutive Loss to Yan
Dvalishvili accepted the judges’ decision and congratulated Yan following their championship contest. The Georgian acknowledged that his opponent performed better and deserved the victory. He also admitted that he could have delivered a stronger performance.
Despite another disappointing result, Dvalishvili demonstrated the endurance and determination that helped him become champion. His wrestling pressure remained dangerous throughout the opening rounds. However, Yan’s adjustments prevented him from maintaining control during the second half.
The defeat leaves Dvalishvili with consecutive losses against the same opponent. His previous championship reign and victories against elite contenders still provide a strong foundation for future opportunities. However, another immediate title fight appears less certain after losing the trilogy.
Dvalishvili must now evaluate his performance and determine how to address the problems Yan exploited. His next opponent remains unconfirmed, but another victory could help him rebuild momentum. The bantamweight division continues offering several competitive matchups outside the championship picture.
What Does Petr Yan’s Victory Mean for the UFC Bantamweight Division?
Yan’s successful title defense provides greater clarity at the top of the bantamweight division. His second consecutive victory against Dvalishvili makes another immediate meeting less necessary. Other leading contenders now have an opportunity to challenge for the championship.
Song Yadong remains one possible opponent following his recent performances and continued progress. O’Malley also presents an interesting option because of his previous victory over Yan. However, the UFC has not announced its next bantamweight championship matchup.
The result also strengthens Yan’s standing among the division’s most accomplished fighters. He has captured the UFC championship twice and defeated several established contenders throughout his career. His latest victory demonstrates his ability to make adjustments against difficult opponents.
UFC 333 also featured Alexander Volkanovski’s second-round stoppage against Movsar Evloev in the main event. Both champions successfully defended their titles during the Abu Dhabi card. The final outcomes differed from several expectations outlined in the UFC 333 predictions, particularly in the featherweight championship matchup.
Final Thoughts
Petr Yan delivered another impressive performance against Merab Dvalishvili to retain his bantamweight championship at UFC 333. The Russian overcame difficult opening rounds before taking control through accurate boxing and effective takedown defense. His unanimous decision victory gave him the final advantage in their three-fight rivalry.
Dvalishvili demonstrated his trademark pressure and determination but could not maintain his early momentum. Yan’s adjustments during the third round changed the contest and helped him control the later exchanges. The result represents another important achievement during the champion’s second title reign.
Yan now has several possible opponents waiting for championship opportunities. Song Yadong and Sean O’Malley could both provide interesting challenges, although the UFC has not confirmed his next defense. For Dvalishvili, the focus shifts toward rebuilding momentum after another difficult defeat.
FAQs About Petr Yan vs Merab Dvalishvili 3 Result
1. Who won Petr Yan vs Merab Dvalishvili 3 at UFC 333?
Petr Yan defeated Merab Dvalishvili by unanimous decision at UFC 333 on October 24, 2026. The victory allowed him to retain his UFC bantamweight championship.
2. What were the judges’ scorecards for Petr Yan vs Merab Dvalishvili 3?
All three judges scored the fight 48-47 in favor of Petr Yan. The Russian secured the victory after five competitive rounds in Abu Dhabi.
3. How many times has Petr Yan defeated Merab Dvalishvili?
Petr Yan has defeated Merab Dvalishvili twice. He won their second meeting at UFC 323 and their third contest at UFC 333, giving him a 2-1 advantage in the rivalry.
4. What is Petr Yan’s MMA record after UFC 333?
Petr Yan holds a 21-5 professional MMA record following his unanimous decision victory over Merab Dvalishvili. The win marked another successful bantamweight championship defense.
5. Who could Petr Yan fight next after UFC 333?
Song Yadong and Sean O’Malley are possible opponents for Yan’s next bantamweight title defense. However, the UFC has not officially announced his next challenger.
