Petr Yan vs Merab Dvalishvili 2: Expert Breakdown and UFC 323 Prediction

The highly anticipated bantamweight title rematch between champion Merab Dvalishvili and former titleholder Petr Yan at UFC 323 has gained intriguing analysis from UFC legend Dominick Cruz, who believes Yan can pull off the upset with one crucial adjustment. Cruz suggests that if Yan can dramatically reduce Dvalishvili’s takedown success from their first encounter, he could reclaim the championship he once held.

Cruz’s Blueprint for Yan’s Redemption

Dominick Cruz has identified the key factor that could swing the rematch in Yan’s favour: takedown defence. In their first meeting, Dvalishvili dominated with his relentless wrestling, securing numerous takedowns that overwhelmed the Russian striker. Cruz believes that if Yan can limit Dvalishvili’s takedown attempts from the “astonishing 50” in their first fight to “a mere 10,” the dynamics of the bout would completely change.

“If Yan can make that one adjustment – cutting those takedowns down – he’s right back in this fight,” Cruz explained. The former champion emphasised that Yan doesn’t need to reinvent his entire game, but rather focus on implementing better defensive wrestling and creating angles to avoid Dvalishvili’s pressure.

The Champion’s Relentless Style

Merab Dvalishvili enters the rematch riding a 14-fight winning streak and aiming to make his fourth title defence this year, which would set a new UFC record for bantamweight title defences in a calendar year. The Georgian fighter’s “bulldozer-like approach” has proven effective against every opponent he’s faced, with his incredible cardio and relentless takedown attempts breaking even the most durable competitors.

Dvalishvili’s strategy remains straightforward but brutally effective: constant forward pressure, high-volume striking to close distance, and an endless stream of takedown attempts that eventually wear opponents down. This approach worked perfectly against Yan in their first encounter, and the champion will likely look to implement the same game plan.

Yan’s Path to Victory

For Petr Yan to reclaim the bantamweight throne, he must solve the puzzle that Dvalishvili presents. The Russians’ path to victory lies in their elite striking and ability to manage distance effectively. Cruz specifically highlighted the importance of “lateral movement and creating angles” to evade Dvalishvili’s advances while setting up counter opportunities.

Yan possesses some of the most technical striking in the division, with precise boxing and powerful combinations. If he can keep the fight standing and force Dvalishvili to engage in striking exchanges, he has the tools to potentially finish the fight or win rounds clearly on the judges’ scorecards.

Historical Implications

This rematch carries significant historical weight for both fighters. For Dvalishvili, a victory would cement his legacy as one of the most dominant bantamweight champions in UFC history, achieving a record-breaking fourth title defence in a single year. For Yan, it represents an opportunity to complete one of the most impressive career resurgences in recent memory, reclaiming the title he lost and proving his ability to adapt against elite competition.

The stakes couldn’t be higher in what promises to be a tactical battle between one of the division’s best wrestlers and one of its most technical strikers.

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