“One of the toughest fighters that i've ever come across. Merab and i didn't get off on the right foot early on. I have nothing but respect for him showing respect to Merab Dvalishvili after his loss at UFC 323, acknowledging their difficult past relationship while praising Dvalishvili's toughness.”

– via UFC 323 Post fight press conference showing respect to Merab Dvalishvili after his loss at UFC 323, acknowledging their difficult past relationship while praising Dvalishvili's toughness

“Listen, it took me a minute to warm up to Merab. I’m very warm now. I love that mentality. He wants to be the first guy to defend his title that many times in a year. If you look at what he’s gone out there and done, and how he’s proven himself as a fighter, and as a world champion, it’s impressive.I love it.”