Dvalishvili explains 36-second RAF 12 loss to Henry Cejudo

Merab Dvalishvili has attributed his 36-second pinfall defeat by Henry Cejudo at RAF 12 to a lack of preparation. Cejudo reversed him early, completed a takedown and secured the victory, winning the inaugural Real American Freestyle Lightweight Crossover title.

Dvalishvili said he had expected Cejudo to make adjustments after their previous meeting in RAF Georgia, where the Georgian had beaten him. However, his preparation for the rematch was limited because his main focus remained his UFC career. He explained that he normally gives a RAF wrestling bout about a week of additional training rather than making it the centre of his camp.

The quick finish allowed Cejudo to settle the immediate rivalry and avenge his earlier defeat. Dvalishvili, however, has indicated that he would like a third meeting with the former UFC double champion to complete the series. He also said he was pleased for Cejudo after the result.

Dvalishvili’s attention now returns to the UFC. The 35-year-old is scheduled to face Petr Yan again at UFC 333, in a rematch of the bantamweight title fight at UFC 323. Yan took the championship from him in that contest and is described as the current two-time bantamweight champion.

The RAF loss came after a demanding period for Dvalishvili. In 2025, he attempted to defend his UFC belt four times, a schedule that affected his health, performances and preparation before the five-round defeat by Yan.

After almost 10 months away, Dvalishvili is preparing to challenge Yan again and regain the title. He has also expressed a desire to return to the active schedule associated with his previous championship run, while the RAF result leaves Cejudo holding the new lightweight crossover belt.