During the UFC 316 press conference after the event, Dvalishvili revealed how instrumental Aljamain Sterling was in preparing him for his successful title defense against Sean O’Malley. Despite not having his own bout scheduled and being in the midst of wedding preparations, Sterling made significant sacrifices to help his (now former) teammate reach the pinnacle of the sport.
Dvalishvili relocated to Las Vegas some time ago, after spending years in New Jersey as a part of Serra/Longo team.
“In this training camp, my friend Aljamain Sterling helped me so much,” Dvalishvili shared with reporters. “He doesn’t have a fight. He’s getting married. He doesn’t really like sparring much, but he was sparring with me three times a week. And he was two times better than Sean O’Malley striking.”
The Georgian champion’s appreciation for Sterling‘s commitment during this crucial period was evident as he described the former champion’s dedication. Sterling‘s willingness to put his wedding preparations aside to help his teammate showcased the depth of their friendship and professional relationship within the Serra-Longo fight team.
The Wedding Gift Announcement
Dvalishvili‘s gratitude for Sterling‘s selfless contribution led to a generous announcement that touched everyone in attendance at the press conference. The newly crowned champion declared his intention to share his performance bonus with the man who helped make his victory possible.
“I tell him today I have to split my bonus and give him half. Let’s go brother. That will be my wedding gift,” Dvalishvili announced, his voice filled with emotion and appreciation.
This gesture represents more than just financial generosity; it symbolizes the acknowledgment of Sterling‘s crucial role in the championship victory. The timing of the gift, coinciding with Sterling‘s upcoming wedding, adds an extra layer of meaning to the gesture.
Dana White repeatedly criticized Dvalishvili in the past because he refused to be booked against Sterling when Sterling was the Bantamweight champion. He has since moved up a division.
Deep Respect for His “Big Brother”
Dvalishvili‘s respect for Sterling extends far beyond their training partnership. During the press conference, the Georgian didn’t hesitate to elevate Sterling when discussing the greatest bantamweights in UFC history.
“Aljo Sterling used to beat me and still beats me,” Dvalishvili admitted with characteristic honesty. “He has like 20-something wins in UFC. And he beat a lot of good guys and he’s the goat. He’s the best. He’s the big brother.”
The bond between Dvalishvili and Sterling transcends their professional relationship, extending into their personal lives. The Georgian’s playful comments about Sterling‘s wedding revealed the depth of their friendship and the joy he feels in his teammate’s happiness.
“Hey, Aljo, I’m going to drink Funk Harbor in your wedding,” Dvalishvili joked during the press conference, drawing laughter from the assembled media.
The Championship Victory Context
Dvalishvili‘s generous gesture comes on the heels of his dominant performance at UFC 316, where he successfully defended his bantamweight title against Sean O’Malley. The Georgian secured his thirteenth consecutive UFC victory by submitting O’Malley with what he called a “north south ninja choke” in the championship rounds.
The victory was particularly meaningful as it took place near Dvalishvili‘s adopted home of New York and New Jersey, where he began his professional career in the United States. “It was today special day because we was fighting here close to New York, New Jersey. I start professional career here. I start my first steps United States here,” Dvalishvili said.
The decision to split his bonus with Sterling perfectly encapsulates the values that have guided Dvalishvili throughout his career. Despite his journey from poverty in post-war Georgia to UFC champion, he has never forgotten the people who helped him along the way.
