Merab Dvalishvili's Exceptional Cardio Defended by Firas Zahabi
MMA coach Firas Zahabi defends bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili against PED accusations, attributing his exceptional cardio to genetics rather than performance-enhancing drugs.
In the world of MMA, the skill level is currently at an all-time high. Each division in the UFC features fighters who excel in a variety of martial arts disciplines including boxing, kickboxing, wrestling, and jiu-jitsu. However, one outstanding trait distinguishes certain fighters from the rest: exceptional cardio.
The current UFC bantamweight champion, Merab Dvalishvili, serves as a prime example of unparalleled cardio. No matter the pace of the fight or its duration, Dvalishvili consistently maintains his energy levels and rarely appears fatigued. Such remarkable endurance often leads to unfounded accusations of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) from critics lacking evidence.
Respected MMA coach, Firas Zahabi, has dismissed these accusations against the Georgian fighter, likening him to the boxing legend Floyd Mayweather due to their genetic predisposition for superior cardio.
Zahabi pointed out that greatness in combat sports attracts suspicion of drug use, particularly in elite athletes like Dvalishvili. Citing Dvalishvili's extraordinary conditioning, Zahabi argued that even those using EPO, a known PED, do not exhibit comparable cardio. He stated, “I've seen guys get caught on drugs who didn’t have cardio like him. Even if you are on EPO, you just don’t have that level of cardio.”
To clarify, EPO (erythropoietin) is known for boosting red blood cell production, significantly enhancing oxygen flow and recovery. Zahabi firmly believes that neither Mayweather nor Dvalishvili has used EPO, emphasising that their endurance is purely a genetic gift, not a result of supplements.
“You can go and try to copy their workout; it’s totally useless,” Zahabi remarked. “It’s got to be genetic.” He believes that no secret training regimen or formula exists that could replicate the extraordinary cardio of these athletes.
