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By James Brizuela
Contributing Writer
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The UFC can often lead to heated arguments between opponents, and that was certainly the case for the UFC 311 press conference. Current bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili went off on upcoming opponent, Umar Nurmagomedov, calling Nurmagomedov a "piece of s***."
Read more: Dana White Announces Massive Main Event and Co-Main Event For UFC 311
Nurmagomedov and Dvalishvili ended up arguing more backstage, leading to an all-out brawl nearly happening before security had to step in and stop the unsanctioned fight.
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Dvalishvili has been showcasing that he clearly does not like Nurmagomedov, which could benefit the challenge. Dvalishvili is normally cool-headed, but he has been showing a new side of rage. That rage has led to plenty of emotional outbursts.
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To make matters worse, Dvalishvili was involved in an altercation with a fan in the crowd at UFC 310 on Saturday, which led to the fan getting punched by Dvalishvili's teammate, Dennis Buzukja.
An initial video showcased Dvalishvili being restrained by security, and Buzukja punching the fan. Now, Dvalishvili has revealed the nature behind the incident.
Dvalishvili posted a video on X with a caption that reads, "More lies, disrespect, and deliberate provocations from Umar's team. Here's the real story ..."
The video then goes into detail and reveals the fan who was punched by Buzukja is a friend of Nurmagomedov. The video showcases plenty of "evidence" by way of screenshots showing the fan in question taking numerous pictures with Nurmagomedov.
Regardless of whether this fan is part of Nurmagomedov's team, the Nevada State Athletic Commission is likely to investigate the matter and could end up handing down a suspension for Dvalishvili.
Though there is no video of Dvalishvili hitting the fan, if it is proven that he also struck the unnamed person, the Nevada State Athletic Commission might have no choice but to suspend him.
A similar situation occurred before UFC 300, as Arman Tsarukyan assaulted a fan who had reportedly been talking trash to the lightweight contender. Tsarukyan was suspended for nine months and hit with a $25,000 fine for striking the fan.
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Dvalishvili has been showing plenty of emotions related to his upcoming bout with Nurmagomedov. If it is proven that he struck the accused friend of Nurmagomedov, he could be hit with a similar punishment as Tsarukyan received.
Dvalishvili and Nurmagomedov are meant to face off at UFC 311, which will take place at the Intui Dome in Inglewood, California on Jan. 18.
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