Abu Dhabi Court Sentences Eight People Over Hotel Brawl

An Abu Dhabi court sentenced eight people to prison terms and ordered their deportation following a violent hotel lobby brawl on Wednesday involving mixed martial arts fighters Usman Nurmagomedov and Merab Dvalishvili.

Six defendants received six months in prison and fines of 300,000 dirhams for disturbing public security, causing panic and endangering lives, according to judicial authorities.

Two additional defendants received identical prison sentences and fines for filming and publishing the altercation online, while two others were fined 50,000 dirhams each for assault.

The confrontation took place at a Yas Island hotel as Dvalishvili participated in media interviews ahead of a wrestling event scheduled for the weekend.

Video recordings circulated widely on social media platforms showing Nurmagomedov walking up behind the Georgian fighter and striking him before a larger melee erupted.

Police detained 10 individuals in total following the disturbance, which drew sharp criticism from prominent figures within the combat sports industry.

The incident highlighted ongoing tensions between rival camps that had previously clashed during a summer event in Georgia.

Usman Nurmagomedov traveled to the United Arab Emirates to support his brother Umar, who was initially slated to compete on the same fight card.

Dvalishvili posted video updates showing facial injuries after the attack, describing the opposing group's actions in strong terms.

Real American Freestyle co-founder Chad Bronstein said that Dvalishvili had rejoined his team ahead of the weekend competition.

“I am pleased to share that Merab Dvalishvili is back with us in Abu Dhabi,” said Chad Bronstein, the organization co-founder.

“We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the relevant authorities in Abu Dhabi for their professionalism and support,” Bronstein said.

Meanwhile, management for Nurmagomedov issued public apologies to the host city regarding the conduct of individuals associated with their team.

“I'm truly sorry,” said Ali Abdelaziz, the manager for Usman Nurmagomedov. “It's embarrassing what happened. I hope these young men will get a good lesson.”

Abdelaziz acknowledged that prior disputes between the athletes did not justify the physical confrontation inside the hotel lobby.

“Two wrongs doesn't make a right,” Abdelaziz said. “I think both parties were wrong, and two wrongs don't make a right, and it's a good lesson for everyone.”

Authorities have not publicly identified the specific individuals convicted, leaving questions regarding the exact identities of those facing deportation.