Jon Anik Ignites MMA World with Bold Claim: Is Merab Dvalishvili Really the Best Bantamweight Champ Ever?

The MMA world is buzzing after UFC commentator Jon Anik dropped a bombshell claim that’s got fight fans everywhere firing up their Twitter accounts. During a recent broadcast, Anik declared current UFC Bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili as “the greatest champion the division has seen.” Wait… what?

As someone who’s covered this sport for over a decade, I nearly spit out my coffee when I heard it. Let’s be real – we’re talking about a division that’s been home to legends like Dominick Cruz, TJ Dillashaw, and the recently dethroned Sean O’Malley. Bold doesn’t even begin to describe Anik’s take.

Breaking Down Anik’s Controversial Take

Anik, who’s normally measured in his commentary, surprised viewers with his enthusiastic endorsement of “The Machine” Dvalishvili. The Georgian fighter has been on an impressive tear, currently riding a 10-fight win streak in the UFC’s talent-stacked 135-pound division.

But greatest ever? Let’s pump the brakes.

Dvalishvili only captured the title in his last outing against Sean O’Malley at UFC 307 via unanimous decision. While impressive, one title defense (which hasn’t happened yet) doesn’t exactly put you in GOAT territory.

The Bantamweight Mount Rushmore Debate

When we talk about bantamweight greatness, several names immediately come to mind:

• Dominick Cruz – Two-time champion with multiple title defenses and a revolutionary fighting style
• TJ Dillashaw – Controversial but undeniably skilled two-time champ with stellar performances
• Renan Barao – Once riding a 32-fight unbeaten streak and considered pound-for-pound elite
• Henry Cejudo – Olympic gold medalist who captured both flyweight and bantamweight gold

Merab has the wrestling pedigree and cardio for days, but his resume simply doesn’t stack up to these legends yet. His grinding style might not be the most fan-friendly, but there’s no denying his effectiveness.

Champion Comparison: Title Defenses

The Path to Bantamweight GOAT Status

Look, I love Merab’s story. The guy came to America with nothing but a dream, slept on gym mats, and fought his way to the top. That’s the kind of journey that makes MMA the greatest sport on earth.

But if Dvalishvili wants to make Anik’s hot take a reality, he needs to start checking these boxes:

1. Defend his title multiple times against top contenders
2. Beat the next generation of killers like Umar Nurmagomedov
3. Perhaps move up for champion vs. champion superfights

The bantamweight division is arguably the deepest in the UFC right now. If Merab can clean it out over the next few years, then we can revisit this conversation.

What Fight Fans Are Saying

Since Anik’s comments, my social media has been flooded with fan reactions. The consensus? Most think Anik jumped the gun big time.

One fan tweeted: “Dominick Cruz is doing commentary next to Anik while he says this! The disrespect is unreal.”

Another added: “Merab might be the hardest worker in the division, but he hasn’t even defended the belt once. Let’s slow down.”

I’m curious what you think. Is Merab on track to become the bantamweight GOAT, or was Anik just caught up in the moment? Drop your thoughts in the comments!

What’s Next for The Machine?

While the debate rages on, Dvalishvili isn’t resting on his laurels. Sources close to the UFC indicate his first title defense could come against either Umar Nurmagomedov or the winner of Deiveson Figueiredo vs. Marlon Vera.

Whatever happens, one thing’s for sure – Merab’s relentless pace and suffocating wrestling make him a nightmare matchup for anyone in the division. Even if he’s not the GOAT yet, he’s certainly making his case with every octagon appearance.

Until next time, this is your favorite MMA writer signing off. Keep those gloves up and opinions strong!

Source: Vox Media