Gotta Keep 'Em Separated

Yesterday at 07:47 AM

Given his long track record of punching up people who disrespect him, we're almost not surprised Dvalishvili is being kept away from Nurmagomedov leading into UFC 311.

Security guards turned UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili away from the Performance Institute in Las Vegas because his opponent Umar Nurmagomedov was inside training.

The Performance Institute has seen its fair share of brawls and near-brawls over the years, leading us to wonder what sort of security they have in the place. Apparently they have security on the outside, though, because Dvalishvili didn't make it through the gates.

The UFC champion is set to defend his 135 pound belt against Nurmagomedov at UFC 311 on January 18th. But the promotion is so worried about Dvalishvili fighting him early they're keeping him out of the building as a precaution.

Merab described the situation in a new social media video.

"I'm here in front of UFC P.I. and security don't let me go in," Dvalishvili said. "Because Umar Nurmagomedov is inside and they are protecting him. Don't worry guys, I'm not going to smash him before the fight. But January 18th is a different story."

"I'm not able to go in UFC P.I. because I was supposed to get treatment for my injury, I was supposed to sign some cards, I was supposed to eat lunch with my friends," he continued. "What the heck? I'm gonna smash this guy. Because of all the disrespect, all the lies he's saying. You better show up, Umar."

"Today, you will be protected. Don't worry, I'm not going to punch you before the fight. But January 18th, no one will protect you."

On one hand, it's wild that a UFC champion can't enter the P.I. to rehab an injury when his opponent is training. On the other, Dvalishvili has a well-earned reputation for hauling off and punching people. After an incident at UFC 310 where he tried to punch a fan in the stands, it seems the UFC is done giving him the benefit of the doubt. And we certainly wouldn't ... at this point it almost feels like Merab is trying to get suspended by the Nevada commission with his behavior.

Almost. This is the same guy who demanded a time out from the ref because Sean O'Malley's coach was talking to him, and then was reprimanded for repeatedly kissing "Suga" during a grappling exchange. The guy wildin', no reason needed. Which is why he's not allowed in the P.I. when Umar's there.

What do you think, Maniacs? Blatant disrespect, or does Merab need to lie in the bed he's made?