Merab Dvalishvili Pays Respect To Demetrious Johnson's Pioneering Efforts In Lower Weight Classes: 'You Guys Make UFC This Level!'

Top-ranked UFC bantamweight contender Merab Dvalishvili recently had high praise for Demetrious Johnson. 

Back at UFC 298, "The Machine" picked up arguably his biggest win to date opposite former UFC flyweight and bantamweight champion Henry Cejudo. After a rocky first round, Dvalishvili used his pressure and wrestling prowess to largely overpower and subdue "Triple C" en route to a unanimous decision victory. 

With the win, Dvalishvili is the likely favorite to a crack at the winner of UFC 299's main-event between UFC Bantamweight Champion Sean O'Malley and Marlon "Chito" Vera. 

'I Have So Much Respect For You' - Merab Dvalishvili To Demetrious Johnson

During a recent appearance on ONE Flyweight Champion Demetrious Johnson's YouTube channel, "The Machine" discussed his respect for "Mighty Mouse."

Prior to his run in ONE, Johnson fought in the UFC, where he holds the record for most successful title defenses in a single reign at 11 thanks to his long run as the 125-pound champ there. 

Dvalishvili was quick to thank Johnson before acknowledging his impressive status within MMA, including his groundbreaking work in the UFC flyweight division during its early years.

Calling Johnson one of the GOATs, the Georgian cardio master also praised him for continuing to fight at such a high level to this day.

"I want to say thank you to you, you are legend," Dvalishvili said. "I have so much respect for you man, like, you guys make UFC like this level and now, like, now because you put so much work and you build this division and you, like, now it runs easy, you know? But thank you guys, you are like, I think, first generations, the real GOATs, and you are legend, and you still fighting this level, high level, and you are motivation for me and for so many others, and like, you're so cool, you in-person, and great fighter."