Dvalishvili asked to release detained in Abu Dhabi Russians

On November 11, in the lobby of a hotel in Abu Dhabi, a Russian fighter, former PFL lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov attacked Georgian UFC fighter Merab Dvalishvili, who gave an interview on the eve of the RAF tournament. The Russian in the company of friends provoked a mass brawl because of the insulting statements of the Georgian addressed to his older brother Umar Nurmagomedov and Dagestani athletes. As a result, all parties to the conflict were detained by local authorities.

Later it became known that ten Russians were sentenced to six months in prison and a fine of 300 thousand dirhams (6.73 million rubles). The two men were not involved in the fight itself, but were videotaping. They, along with the fighters, received six months in prison and fines, their phones were confiscated, and materials were removed. After the term of imprisonment comes to an end, all violators will be deported to Russia. Dvalishvili and his friend Saba Lazishvili escaped with fines and were released immediately after questioning.

Some sources report that Usman Nurmagomedov’s older brother, Umar, is among those convicted by local authorities. He was not involved in the fight but arrived at the scene a little later.

Merab Dvalishvili after the incident still performed at the RAF tournament. He won the fight with Marlon Moraes, and then called on the UAE authorities to release his abusers.

“Look, if it’s possible, I would like to appeal to the government of Abu Dhabi or anyone who can influence it. Please release these guys, please let them out. Please! We're just fighters and anything can happen, but I really want them released. Please, Dvalishvili said in a post-match interview with Cheil Sonnen.

Among those who were in custody, also UFC fighter Tagir Ulanbekov and a member of the team of Khabib Amru Magomedov.

The conflict between Nurmagomedov and Dvalishvili began in 2025. Then Umar and Merab fought in the tournament UFC 311, the Russian suffered the first defeat in his career, losing by unanimous decision of the judges. After that, between the fighters began an enmity, both repeatedly spoke sharply against each other. This war reached its maximum intensity in July this year, when on the eve of the RAF tournament in Tbilisi, Dagestani wrestler Ahmed Hajimagomedov approached Dagestan to ask the Georgian about insulting statements against Umar and Dagestani athletes. Merab did not communicate with Hajimagomedov, but used his fists, allowing himself to humiliate the guest and pour oil into the fire.

Obviously, the incident in Abu Dhabi will have a negative impact on the future of the Nurmagomedov brothers. Also, there is no end to the war between the Russians and Dvalishvili, which gives reason to think about a possible continuation of this story.