Oleg Taktarov, the first Russian to win a UFC title, criticized current UFC featherweight champion Merab Dvalishvili’s comments about Russia in an exclusive interview with Telecomasia.net.
Oleg Taktarov exclusively for Telecom Asia Sport
That’s just stupid of Dvalishvili. I just returned from Georgia, and no one there talked about the political situation. I, too, didn’t provoke anyone. It is very wrong of Merab to speak about political matters of another country. In this regard, Khamzat Chimaev did the right thing. When he arrived in Georgia and was asked about politics, he replied, “I am an athlete, not a politician.” My advice to fighters who try to get involved in politics – stay silent and focus on your job. It will do you good.
In an interview with Daniel Cormier, Dvalishvili admitted that his fight against Yan had a political aspect that gave him extra motivation. The rematch between Merab Dvalishvili and Petr Yan will take place on December 7 at UFC 323 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Dvalishvili’s record stands at 21 wins and four losses. Yan’s record stands at 19 wins and four losses.
