Former UFC star Al Iaquinta has called out the organization for what he perceives as misplaced priorities in athlete promotion.
Iaquinta, who competed in the UFC’s lightweight division, expressed concern about the influence that promoted stars have on young fans, specifically highlighting Georgian bantamweight contender Merab Dvalishvili as an example of a disciplined athlete he believes deserves more spotlight.
“Sports change society,” Iaquinta stated in a recent interview alongside UFC commentator Jon Anik. “Whatever sports do, we affect the culture so much.”
His criticism centered on what he sees as the UFC’s tendency to elevate certain fighter personas over others. “UFC promotes the guy that smokes weed, and all these little kids are smoking weed and have pink hair,” Iaquinta remarked.
The New York native suggested the promotion could use its platform more responsibly by showcasing athletes like Dvalishvili, who is known for his rigorous training regimen and clean lifestyle.
“If UFC wanted, they could change the world,” Iaquinta continued. “They could go, ‘Look at Merab — he doesn’t drink, he doesn’t smoke, he works hard.'”
Dvalishvili, a training partner of bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling, has gained recognition for his relentless wrestling style and cardio-heavy approach. Currently riding an impressive winning streak, the “Machine” from Georgia has become a fan favorite despite his relatively modest public profile.
Iaquinta concluded his passionate appeal by questioning the current direction of promotion: “How many kids in the audience have pink hair? You could change the world for a better place if you could get behind this dude.”
The comments have resonated with some fans who believe combat sports organizations have a responsibility to consider the role models they create through their promotional efforts.
UFC Champion Merab Dvalishvili Grew Up Without Electricity Until Age 12
Following his championship victory at UFC 316, Dvalishvili shared the stark reality of his early years.
“When I was young, I wanted to be an athlete because I want to represent my country outside of my country,” he said. “I was living in Georgia. I speak only Georgian and I don’t really see much. I grow up like I don’t even have a TV until I was 12 and I don’t even really have electricity in my car because we was coming from the war 1991.”
He described a childhood where basic household luxuries like refrigerators were often impossible due to unreliable electricity.
“ it doesn’t even make sense to have a refrigerator you know because light was going and come maybe,”
This stark contrast between his modest upbringing and his current UFC stardom highlights an extraordinary rise fueled by hope and hard work.
“I come from nothing,” Dvalishvili reflected. “I started fighting in the sport because I want to represent my country and I think I’m doing okay. I’m happy that I can make my country people, Georgian people proud.”
His story stands as a powerful motivation for athletes from small or struggling countries.
“This should be good motivation for every small country or even whatever country. Just good motivation to represent your country.”
