Merab Dvalishvili is back in the spotlight as part of the main event at UFC 306, which is largely featuring Mexican fighters… and Merab himself.

Merab, who is challenging Sean O'Malley this time, feels a strong connection to Mexico, a sentiment he confirmed since facing Henry Cejudo at UFC 298.

Why Does Merab Dvalishvili Feel Mexican? 🇲🇽

Many questioned why the Georgian-born fighter had donned the Mexican flag. He wanted to hype up his fight by stating at a press conference that he intended to make Mexicans proud, noting that his opponent, despite having Aztec roots, had said he did not feel Mexican.

“I’m going to make Mexicans happy because the Mexican people need to feel proud. I’m going to make Mexico proud; I represent Mexico. Let’s go, guys!” Merab Dvalishvili declared while holding a Mexican flag. Even though the Georgian fighter has no direct ties to Mexico, his gesture earned applause from fans, and since then, he has been embraced as one of their own.

Merab Visited the Training Grounds of Julio César Chávez 🥊

Just weeks before UFC 306, Merab, who has shown a deep love for Mexico, traveled to Tijuana to immerse himself in the Mexican boxing style he admires.

“I’m here in Mexico to have a great boxing camp before the fight,” he said. “I’m perfecting my Mexican style.”

In Tijuana, he trained at the historic Crea gym, renowned for producing world champions like Julio César Chávez, Juan Manuel “Mantecas” Medina, Jackie Nava, Erik “El Terrible” Morales, José Luis Castillo, and Humberto “Zorrita” Soto, among others. During his stay, he sparred with Edgar Chairez, a Mexican UFC fighter, and received training from Roberto Quirarte, son of Rómulo Quirarte, the gym’s legendary founder.

Merab Dvalishvili has made the most of his time in Mexico, not only enjoying Tijuana’s delicious food but also immersing himself in the rich Mexican culture.

“I wanted to train in Mexico with my Mexican brothers,” he told UWC México. “I love Mexico, Mexican fighters, the people, the food, and the climate.”

Additionally, Merab trained at Entram Gym, a prominent mixed martial arts center, where he had the chance to interact with students and other professional fighters, gaining valuable experience and knowledge.

Merab Dvalishvili Even Had Tacos! 🌮🇲🇽

And since you can’t truly be considered Mexican without eating tacos, the Georgian fighter made time to visit a taquería to recharge with some Aztec “energy.” He was seen enjoying the country’s cuisine in a video he posted on Instagram.

So, Sean O’Malley should be well-prepared to face the "Mexican style" that Merab has embraced in preparation for his big fight at The Sphere on September 14.