Georgian PM announces $370,000 awards for UFC champion Merab Dvalishvili

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Monday announced that UFC champion Merab Dvalishvili, like Ilia Topuria, would receive a monetary award of one million GEL, approximately $370,000 USD, to honor their historic achievements in mixed martial arts.

“This achievement highlights the indomitable fighting spirit of the Georgian people, forged over 3,000 years of history,” said Kobakhidze in a statement.

“For a nation of just four million people, this is a matter of immense pride. Merab Dvalishvili and Ilia Topuria have showcased the strength and determination of Georgian athletes to the world,” he added.

Merab Dvalishvili recently claimed a UFC championship title, further solidifying Georgia’s presence in the sport. Ilia Topuria, who also brought the first UFC title to Georgia, is set to defend his championship on October 26. Kobakhidze expressed confidence in Topuria’s abilities and predicted that Georgia would celebrate another victory on that date. “The 26th is our day, and we believe Ilia will give us another reason to be proud,” said the PM.