Who Won The ESPYS Fighter Of The Year?
In a night packed with star power and high-stakes recognition, Merab Dvalishvili emerged victorious as the 2025 ESPYS Fighter of the Year. The Georgian bantamweight standout earned the prestigious honor over a stacked field of nominees that included UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, PFL and UFC crossover talent Kayla Harrison, and surging South African middleweight Dricus du Plessis.
Dvalishvili’s win comes after a relentless campaign in the UFC’s 135-pound division, where he continued to cement his status as one of the most dominant forces in mixed martial arts. Known for his unmatched pace, suffocating wrestling, and iron will, Dvalishvili’s undefeated run over the past several years has seen him take out former champions and top contenders alike. His victory over Henry Cejudo earlier this year—via unanimous decision—further solidified his claim to title contention and proved he can outwork even the most accomplished names in the sport.
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What makes Dvalishvili’s ESPYS win particularly significant is the competition he faced. Islam Makhachev remains one of the most technically complete champions in the UFC, defending his lightweight title in back-to-back fights with precision and poise. Kayla Harrison made headlines with a dominant UFC debut after her championship run in the PFL, showcasing her Olympic pedigree. Dricus du Plessis captured middleweight gold and quickly became a fan favorite with his unorthodox striking and aggressive style.
Yet it was Dvalishvili’s consistency, fan-friendly fighting style, and blue-collar work ethic that resonated most with voters. The ESPYS, which celebrate excellence in sports performance and achievements, recognize not only wins but also the impact athletes make on and off the field—or in this case, the Octagon. Dvalishvili, affectionately nicknamed “The Machine,” has long been a fan favorite for his positive energy, unwavering determination, and humble demeanor.
With this ESPYS win, Dvalishvili joins a celebrated list of fighters who have previously earned the award, further amplifying his status as one of MMA’s elite. As fans eagerly await his next bout—potentially a long-awaited title shot—his 2025 Fighter of the Year honor is a testament to the grit and grind that brought him to the top.
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