Pros React to Roman Dolidze’s Victory Over Marvin Vettori at UFC Fight Night 254
Roman Dolidze secured a dominant win over Marvin Vettori at UFC Fight Night 254. Fighters react to his performance – should he fight Israel Adesanya next?
MMA stars weigh in on Dolidze’s dominant win – what’s next for him?
Roman Dolidze delivered the biggest win of his UFC career by defeating Marvin Vettori in the main event of UFC Fight Night 254. After losing their first encounter at UFC 286, Dolidze turned the tables with a dominant unanimous decision victory. Now riding a three-fight win streak, the Georgian standout has the MMA world talking about his future. Could a showdown with Israel Adesanya be next?
Dolidze dominates in intense rematch
The highly anticipated five-round battle saw both fighters engage in a striking-focused contest. Dolidze gradually took control of the fight, showing increased aggression and precision as the rounds progressed. His powerful right hands, well-timed body kicks, and sharp knees in the clinch wore down Vettori, especially in the later rounds.
By the final round, Dolidze had clearly gained the upper hand, landing his best strikes while maintaining strong octagon control. The judges’ scorecards reflected his dominance, awarding him a unanimous 49-46 victory.
The win not only avenged his previous loss but also demonstrated significant improvements in his game, positioning him as a serious title contender in the UFC’s middleweight division.
WHAT A BATTLE 👏@RomanDolidzeUFC is leaving #UFCVegas104 with a unanimous decision victory! pic.twitter.com/xcm7n08rSd
— UFC (@ufc) March 16, 2025
Our main event has arrived at the APEX🤩
[ #UFCVegas104 is LIVE now on @ESPNPlus 📺 ] pic.twitter.com/xceXHux5AZ
— UFC (@ufc) March 15, 2025
MAIN EVENT TIME 💥
Marvin Vettori vs Roman Dolidze 2 is next! #UFCVegas104 pic.twitter.com/rey6HBghtr
— UFC Europe (@UFCEurope) March 16, 2025
Might need that Marvin 😅 #UFCVegas104 pic.twitter.com/o19RHd5jfw
— UFC (@ufc) March 16, 2025
Marvin vettori is probably the smartest fighter ever , right after Tito Ortiz. He just forgot his cup 👏
— Paulo Costa (@BorrachinhaMMA) March 16, 2025
I have it 10-9 Dolidze after a close, tactical first round.
— Aaron Bronsteter (@aaronbronsteter) March 16, 2025
10-9 Vettori. Close round but Dolidze needs to change levels to make Vettori respect the takedown threat! This will open up his striking #UFCVegas104
— Henry Cejudo (@HenryCejudo) March 16, 2025
A warning issued for fingers extended. A second later an eye poke. And then another warning.
Why have rules???#UFCVegas104
— Damon Martin (@DamonMartin) March 16, 2025
19-19. Very competitive so far. One of these fighters needs to take a big risk in order to gain momentum and possibly finish the fight #UFCVegas104
— Henry Cejudo (@HenryCejudo) March 16, 2025
29-28 Vettori. Dolidze is overly reliant on his right hook. He needs to keep firing the low kick and look to mix in some wrestling to get back on track #UFCVegas104
— Henry Cejudo (@HenryCejudo) March 16, 2025
Championship Rounds!
How are you scoring Marvin Vettori vs Roman Dolidze 2?! #UFCVegas104 pic.twitter.com/xZUlbF0nCt
— UFC Europe (@UFCEurope) March 16, 2025
10-9 Dolidze after R4
I have it 39-37 Dolidze heading into the final round
— Aaron Bronsteter (@aaronbronsteter) March 16, 2025
Herb Dean issuing his 10th warning of the night pic.twitter.com/oWWd2RyIaH
— caposa (@Grabaka_Hitman) March 16, 2025
Very even scrap but I have Dolidze up on the score cards. Finishing this round strong should seal the win for the Georgian powerhouse #UFCVegas104
— Aljamain Sterling (@funkmasterMMA) March 16, 2025
Dolidze Vs Adesanya next? 👀 https://t.co/f3HCiXhc1P
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) March 16, 2025
I sense a Strickland main event at the most famous warehouse in sports in your future https://t.co/Pls3T7ttnz
— caposa (@Grabaka_Hitman) March 16, 2025
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Fighters react to Dolidze’s victory
Dolidze’s performance drew plenty of attention from the MMA world, with fighters sharing their reactions on social media:
Former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling praised Dolidze’s win:
“Roman!!!! Let’s goo!!! #UFC Fight Night 254”
Former two-division UFC champion Henry Cejudo analyzed the fight:
“48-47 Dolidze. Great display of improvement and resilience by Roman Dolidze. Top 10! #UFC Fight Night 254”
Featherweight fighter Ode’ Osbourne appreciated the high-level action:
“Love how these men are going for it in the fifth round. So far I have it 2-2 #UFC Fight Night 254”
The reactions highlighted just how impactful Dolidze’s performance was, proving that he belongs among the elite in the middleweight division.
What’s next for Dolidze?
With three consecutive victories and a statement win over a ranked opponent, Dolidze is now targeting even bigger fights. He has expressed interest in facing former champions Israel Adesanya and Robert Whittaker, believing he is ready for the division’s best.
“I want the biggest fights possible. Adesanya, Whittaker, whoever the UFC wants – I’m ready.” – Roman Dolidze
His dominant performance has put him in prime position for a high-profile fight, potentially against a top-five opponent. If he continues on this trajectory, a title shot may not be far off.
Summary and fan question
Roman Dolidze’s victory over Marvin Vettori was a crucial moment in his career. His ability to adapt and improve since their first fight showcased his evolution as a fighter. Now riding a three-fight winning streak, he is knocking on the door of the division’s elite.
Should Roman Dolidze face Israel Adesanya next? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
