Russian mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Usman Nurmagomedov and former UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili have been detained in Abu Dhabi following a physical altercation. The incident, which occurred in a hotel lobby, led to both fighters being held for questioning by local authorities.

The brawl reportedly took place on Wednesday, ahead of Saturday's Real American Freestyle (RAF) event, where Dvalishvili is scheduled to compete. Videos circulating on social media showed Nurmagomedov allegedly approaching Dvalishvili from behind, leading to a scuffle involving members from both camps. Dvalishvili later shared images showing a bloodied face and a swollen eye, claiming he and a companion were attacked.

The detention comes amidst long-standing tensions between Dvalishvili and the Nurmagomedov camp. Notably, Dvalishvili had previously defeated Usman's elder brother, Umar Nurmagomedov, in January 2025 to defend his UFC bantamweight title. Both Dvalishvili and Umar Nurmagomedov are slated to participate in the upcoming RAF event, with Dvalishvili facing Marlon Moraes and Umar taking on Urijah Faber.

Usman Nurmagomedov, 28, is an undefeated PFL lightweight champion. Merab Dvalishvili, 35, is a former UFC bantamweight champion.

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