Merab targeting Petr Yan trilogy bout this summer

It looks like Merab Dvalishvili could return around the same time as UFC bantamweight champion Petr Yan.

After making three successful title defenses, Dvalishvili (21-5 MMA, 14-3 UFC) lost the bantamweight belt to Yan at UFC 323. It was his fourth fight of the year, and the demanding schedule appeared to take a toll on him. Now, “The Machine” hopes to complete a trilogy with Yan after they split their first two matchups.

“When I’m happy and enjoying myself, I usually perform well,” Dvalishvili told MMA Junkie Radio. “I think that’s what I was missing in my last fight against Petr. I was too focused. Next time, I want to be more like myself.”

Both Dvalishvili and Yan (20-5 MMA, 12-4 UFC) are currently recovering from injuries. Yan recently underwent what he described as a minor back surgery, while Dvalishvili suffered a broken nose. Despite that, both fighters are aiming to return this summer.

“This year, I want to have two fights: probably the trilogy with Petr Yan in the summer, and then one more before the end of the year,” Dvalishvili said. “I want to stay active and keep doing what I love. Whether I’m champion or not, I just want to fight as much as possible because that’s what makes me happy. Win or lose, I’ll always do my best and keep moving forward.”

Even with a broken nose, Dvalishvili plans to stay active through grappling competition. He is scheduled to face Henry Cejudo in the main event of RAF08 on April 18 at Liacouras Center. Dvalishvili previously defeated Cejudo by unanimous decision at UFC 298.