RAF 9 live blog: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Frankie Edgar

Merab Dvalishvili made his RAF debut with a dominant performance, technical-falling Frankie Edgar 12–1 in the third period at RAF 9 on Saturday in Arlington, Texas. Dvalishvili, one of the world's top pound-for-pound MMA fighters and a former UFC bantamweight champion, showcased impressive wrestling despite not hailing from a freestyle wrestling background, overwhelming the respected Hall of Famer in his return to competitive wrestling.

Edgar, a lightweight champion and beloved figure in MMA, emerged from retirement to compete on the mats after stepping away from the sport in 2022. The 40-something wrestler from Clarion University brought legitimate credentials and defensive acumen early, holding his own in the first period and earning a 1–0 lead. However, Dvalishvili's explosive athleticism and relentless pressure proved too much to sustain. By the second period, Dvalishvili began landing takedowns and controlling position, opening an 8–1 lead heading into the third.

Dvalishvili had been set to face Henry Cejudo at RAF 9, but Cejudo withdrew due to injury just hours before the event. The victory showcased Dvalishvili's versatility while he awaits a trilogy bout with Petr Yan in MMA following his December loss to Yan, which ended his bid to defend his UFC title four times in a calendar year. After the match, Dvalishvili called out Cejudo to settle unfinished business and expressed his enthusiasm for continuing to compete in RAF.