UFC legend Dominick Cruz shared his thoughts on Merab Dvalishvili`s potential claim as the greatest bantamweight fighter of all time, drawing a comparison to a famous basketball debate.
Current UFC Bantamweight Champion Merab Dvalishvili is set to face Sean O`Malley this Saturday at UFC 316 in Newark. This fight, the second meeting between the two within a year, offers Dvalishvili a chance to settle their rivalry and further enhance his impressive record. Following his title defense at UFC 311, Dvalishvili is making a swift return to the Octagon for this highly anticipated rematch.
Leading up to UFC 316, discussion has focused on Dvalishvili`s long-term legacy in the bantamweight division. A victory this weekend could significantly bolster his case for being considered the greatest bantamweight fighter ever.
Dominick Cruz weighs in on Merab Dvalishvili’s GOAT case ahead of UFC 316
Dominick Cruz, a retired fighter often regarded as the premier bantamweight in history, acknowledged that Merab Dvalishvili is now presenting a compelling argument for that title, even challenging Cruz`s own position at the top of many fans` lists.
Appearing on *The Bohnfire* podcast, Cruz discussed the debate comparing his legacy to Dvalishvili`s. “The mere fact that my name is part of this conversation isn`t for me to judge,” Cruz stated regarding Dvalishvili`s potential GOAT status. He drew a comparison, saying, “Without claiming it`s on the same scale, think of the LeBron vs. Jordan debate. You`ll never, under any circumstances, convince me that LeBron is superior to Jordan. That`s my view. Yet, others strongly believe the opposite. I appreciate that this discussion is happening at all. If a conversation exists, that`s the point – and Merab has undeniably initiated this conversation. Credit to him.”
Cruz elaborated on why Dvalishvili warrants inclusion in the GOAT discussion despite having fewer title defenses. “He has truly climbed the ranks,” Cruz commented. “He fought his way up and down the divisional ladder in a manner very similar to my own path. I had to overcome the toughest opponents, often in rematches, to earn my opportunities. I earned every step, and I see that same pattern in Merab`s journey. I respect his achievements.”
While Dvalishvili still needs to accumulate more accomplishments to match Cruz`s extensive record, a victory at UFC 316 would significantly advance his trajectory towards potentially surpassing the former champion. Dvalishvili arrives at UFC 316 riding a 12-fight winning streak, featuring recent victories over notable fighters like Umar Nurmagomedov and Henry Cejudo.
Sean O’Malley’s GOAT case made by UFC legend ahead of Merab Dvalishvili rematch
Beyond the discussion surrounding Dvalishvili, Sean O`Malley is also being mentioned in the GOAT conversation ahead of UFC 316. Veteran fighter Chael Sonnen recently argued that an O`Malley win this weekend would establish him as the greatest bantamweight ever.
Prior to his loss to Dvalishvili last September at UFC 306, O`Malley secured the bantamweight title by knocking out Aljamain Sterling and successfully defended it against Marlon Vera. UFC 316 marks O`Malley`s first bout since his initial encounter with Dvalishvili.
This rematch carries significant weight for both fighters, as the outcome will substantially impact their career records and historical standings.
Rupert Hartwell