The 33-year-old Georgian fighter, Merab Dvalishvili, became the champion in the UFC's super-lightweight category, the premier organization in mixed martial arts (MMA).
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Dvalishvili defeated reigning champion Sean O'Malley in a fight held in Las Vegas, with Dvalishvili dominating most of the rounds.
"I have come so far, step by step. I fought O'Malley, my friends, and you can imagine what I did to him. Of course, I respect what we do - we fight - and today, I am the best fighter in the UFC. I won the belt, and I worked for it for 12 years.
We all have a goal, and I had the opportunity to fight in the UFC. I'm just an ordinary person, and I have great respect for the legends. Dana White discovered me, saw me as a fighter, and brought me here. Look at me now - I'm a UFC champion, living my dreams, and inspiring so many people in our country and around the world.
I love you all. God is great, friends. Follow your dreams - anything is possible. Look at me now," said Merab Dvalishvili after his victory.
This marked his 11th consecutive UFC win, with his last loss dating back to 2018.
Following Ilia Topuria, Merab Dvalishvili is now the second Georgian UFC champion.
