Merab Dvalishvili, Usman Nurmagomedov brawl in Abu Dhabi: Are police involved?

Merab Dvalishvili sustained injuries after being attacked by a group led by Usman Nurmagomedov during an interview in a hotel lobby ahead of the upcoming RAF Abu Dhabi event. The incident occurred as Dvalishvili, who is set to face Marlon Moraes, was conversing with the media. A video shared by UFC fighter Ilia Topuria showed Dvalishvili being approached from behind and subsequently beaten by Nurmagomedov.

Dvalishvili posted an angry video on social media, blaming the attackers for kicking him while he was down. Security personnel were present but did not intervene effectively, according to Dvalishvili. The UFC fighter, 35, has a history with the Nurmagomedovs; he defeated Usman's older brother Umar in 2005. The rivalry has resurfaced recently, with Dvalishvili previously involved in a confrontation with an associate of Umar prior to UFC Georgia.

Umar is also scheduled to compete at the RAF Abu Dhabi event. Usman Nurmagomedov, though not participating in the card, is known to attend his brother's matches. Dvalishvili recently fought Petr Yan at UFC 333, losing via unanimous decision. The UFC lightweight champion is currently a free agent and rumored to join the UFC. Dvalishvili's return to Abu Dhabi comes after his UFC bout, with the outcome remaining uncertain due to his injury. The National sought comment from the RAF regarding the incident.