Merab Dvalishvili makes surprising pick for UFC 329's McGregor vs. Holloway 2

Former UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili shared his predictions for several key bouts at UFC 329, the July 11 card headlined by Conor McGregor's long-awaited rematch against Max Holloway at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Dvalishvili, who posted his picks via a video clip on social media, sided with Brandon Royval over Lone'er Kavanagh in a flyweight matchup. He also backed Cory Sandhagen to defeat Mario Bautista, describing it as "a great fight" but ultimately favoring the former title challenger. For the co-main event, the Georgian fighter predicted Benoit St. Denis would get past Paddy Pimblett.

When addressing the headline bout—a rematch 13 years in the making—Dvalishvili expressed admiration for both fighters but leaned toward McGregor. "I love Conor McGregor so much, and I have so much respect for Max Holloway," he said. "I want to see Conor McGregor win because he's been away from fighting for a long time and he's done so much for the sport, and he deserves to win this time." His support for McGregor's return reflected his respect for the Irishman's contribution to mixed martial arts, though he acknowledged Holloway's quality as an opponent.