Connells Combat
Striking, wrestling, and jiu jitsu are three skills of the utmost importance to become a high level mixed martial arts fighter. Determining which of these skills reigns supreme has been debated since the UFC’s inception. However I’m here to tell you that the most important skill in MMA is none of those three.
Above is UFC Bantamweight Champion Merab Dvalishvili. Last night at UFC 311, Merab secured his 12th straight UFC victory when he bested 18-0 Dagestani phenom Umar Nurmagomedov. Despite of this, in Merab’s last 5 fights he has opened as the betting underdog. Why do people keep doubting this man? It’s because skill for skill Merab should not be winning any of his fights, let alone defeating 4 former UFC Champions in his last 5. As a striker Merab isn’t powerful, fast, or particularly technical; as a grappler Merab isn’t often able to establish control and in his 14 UFC fights has never gotten a submission. So why does Merab keep beating the best fighters in the world? It’s
because he is the best at using the most important skill in MMA: cardio.
Merab Dvalishvili style is completely reliant on his unfathomable cardio. Usually, when fighters are attempting takedowns unsuccessfully it serves to tire them out. However with Merab, it serves to tire his opponent out. Merab attempts takedowns at rate never before seen in UFC history.
Merab has adopted the mindset that it does not matter if he completes his takedowns. As long as he is putting his opponent in situations where they are constantly having to defend themselves, it will sap their energy.
Although the skills of striking, wrestling, and jiu jitsu are all very important in the sport of MMA, it all means nothing if you are tired. Merab Dvalishvili understands this and ensures that his style of fighting, above all else, will make you tired.